Alcaraz Passes "Test of Fire" in Madrid Open Return

Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning Madrid Open champion, made a triumphant return to the tournament on Sunday, defeating Thiago Seyboth Wild in straight sets (6-3, 6-3) to advance to the last 16. Despite concerns over a recent forearm injury, Alcaraz displayed impressive form, showcasing his readiness for the upcoming French Open.

Alcaraz, who had missed a month of action prior to Madrid, showed no signs of discomfort as he dominated the match from the outset. He broke Seyboth Wild's serve in the first set to take a 4-3 lead and sealed the set with another break when his opponent double faulted.

In the second set, Alcaraz stepped up his intensity, winning 10 of the first 11 points and breaking Seyboth Wild twice to race into a 5-0 lead. Although Seyboth Wild managed to hold serve and break back, Alcaraz remained composed and closed out the match on his own serve.

"Today was the test of fire," said Alcaraz after the match. "No discomfort, feeling spectacular... from here, we'll be getting better."

In other matches, Andrey Rublev overcame a 5-0 deficit in the first set tie-break to defeat Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7-6 (12/10), 6-4. Women's world number four Elena Rybakina cruised to a 6-1, 6-4 victory over Mayar Sherif, while Mirra Andreeva upset Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 7-5, 6-1.

Tags: #CarlosAlcaraz, #MadridOpen, #Tennis, #InjuryReturn, #FrenchOpenPreparation