Carlos Alcaraz bagged a record in the Open Era after he defeated his Chinese opponent Shang Juncheng 6-1, 6-1, 1-0 (retired) in the third round of the Australian Open 2024 at the Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, on Saturday.
Juncheng got injured just after the first game of the third set and couldn’t continue after which the Spaniard was given a walkover, making his way clear to the fourth round.
While doing so, Alcaraz, 20, became the youngest player in the Open Era to reach the round of 16 for seven successive Grand Slam appearances, overtaking Bjorn Borg who held the previous record between Roland Garros 1975 and Wimbledon 1977.
Opening up after his win, Alcaraz was happy to have finally played an opponent younger than him.
“Yeah. I think tennis is growing. More young players are coming up. It’s great for tennis & the people as well.. watching young players play in this stage. I’m glad finally I played a younger player,” Alcaraz said talking after the match.
When asked if he’s getting all this energy from practising hard, the Spaniard gave a witty reply.
“Tough decision. I’ve been eating every day at the Spanish restaurant. I think that’s where I got the power,” he added.
He also wished Juncheng good luck for his future and prayed for his speedy recovery.
“This isn’t the way anyone wants to move on. I want to wish him a speedy recovery. He’s an amazing player & started his year unbelievable. I was looking forward to playing this match. Unfortunately, he wasn’t in the best shape possible. I think Jerry & myself wanted to play a long match.”
Alcaraz has now reached the fourth round of all Four Grand Slams (US Open, Wimbledon, Australian Open, Roland Garros) at the age of 20.
The Spaniard, looking for his first Australian Open and third major, will now take on Miomir Kecmanovic in the fourth round on January 21.