Goffin stuns Alcaraz as Medvedev crashes out in Miami
David Goffin produced a stunning comeback to upset world number three Carlos Alcaraz 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 at the Miami Open on Friday, sending the Spanish star crashing out in the second round.
The 34-year-old Belgian, ranked 55th, sensed Alcaraz was below his best and went on the offensive, showcasing sharp shot-making while his opponent struggled with unforced errors. Goffin, who previously defeated Alcaraz in 2021, held his nerve after letting a lead slip in the opening set, securing victory with composure.
“It’s that kind of night that I will remember for sure—against Carlos and in a stadium like that. And the night that gave me a lot of confidence to continue,” Goffin said.
Alcaraz, who had entered the match feeling physically strong, admitted he was disappointed with his level.
“In general, it was a poor level from me, I didn’t play well,” Alcaraz said. “Playing a break down in the third set, not feeling great or confident physically, it’s really tough to get back.”
The upsets continued as defending champion Daniil Medvedev fell 6-2, 6-3 to Jaume Munar. The Russian struggled with a back issue but refused to blame his loss on injury.
“Yeah, I was not 100% physically, but I tried my best to get into the match,” Medvedev said.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic bounced back from his Indian Wells disappointment, defeating Rinky Hijikata 6-0, 7-6 (7/1). Iga Swiatek also advanced, overcoming a second-set scare to beat Caroline Garcia 6-2, 7-5.
(Source: AFP)
