Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame a mid-match scare to defeat Damir Dzumhur and secure his spot in the French Open round of 16 on Friday. The Spanish World No. 2 started strong at Roland-Garros, dominating the first two sets with his trademark flair and power.
However, the 20-year-old stumbled in the third set as the veteran Dzumhur, 31, fought back with aggressive play and clever tactics. Alcaraz’s performance dipped, and unforced errors began to creep into his game, allowing the Bosnian to seize the third set 6-4.
“I didn’t enjoy it that much today. I suffered quite a lot,” Alcaraz admitted after the match. “The first two sets were under control, but then he played more aggressively. I had to fight, but in the end, I’m proud to get the win.”
In the fourth set, Alcaraz found himself trailing 3-1, but the resilient Spaniard reignited his energy just in time. He tightened up his game, reduced his errors, and surged back to clinch the set 6-4, sealing a 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 victory.
Fans at Court Philippe Chatrier were treated to a thrilling night session, witnessing the young star navigate a tough challenge and ultimately prevail. Dzumhur, aiming to become the first player from Bosnia & Herzegovina to reach the last 16 at a Grand Slam, showed incredible determination, especially after taking a medical timeout for a groin issue in the third set.
Next up for Alcaraz is a clash with America’s 13th seed Ben Shelton in the round of 16. The stage is set for another exciting encounter as Alcaraz continues his title defense.
In other action, Denmark’s World No. 6 Holger Rune survived a marathon five-set battle against France’s Quentin Halys. Rune displayed grit and resilience to emerge victorious with a 4-6, 6-2, 5-7, 7-5, 6-2 win.
“It was a brutal match. He played really well,” Rune said. “I tried to change some things. The player who took the opportunities to be aggressive was the player who won today.”
Rune will face Italy’s eighth seed Lorenzo Musetti in the next round, promising more high-stakes tennis action at Roland-Garros.
