Carlos ALCARAZ triumphs in thrilling comeback against Matteo ARNALDI at Indian Wells

Carlos Alcaraz showcased his best tennis to overcome Matteo Arnaldi 6-7(5), 6-0, 6-2, advancing to the third round of Indian Wells. The Italian displayed an extraordinary performance in the first set but couldn't sustain it for the remainder of the match.

On the other hand, the world No. 2 demonstrated that he is in good physical condition after his withdrawal from the Rio Open, defeating a tough opponent to begin his journey in defense of the 2023 Indian Wells title.

The first set treated fans to an extraordinary level of tennis from both players. They both held their serves without much trouble until 3-3, where Carlos secured the first break but couldn't maintain it in the next game, allowing Arnaldi to capitalize on his first opportunity and level the score at 4-4.

Alcaraz had to save a set point against him at 6-5, taking the set to a tie-break where Arnaldi had a 5-2 advantage. However, Alcaraz recovered the two mini-breaks against him. Nevertheless, a new serving error from the Spaniard ultimately handed the set to Arnaldi.

The 23-year-old Italian seemed to be in his prime entering the second set, but the 2-times Grand Slam champion asserted his dominance, offering no opportunities to his opponent. Alcaraz only dropped one point on serve throughout the set and secured three consecutive breaks to finish the set 6-0 in just 27 minutes.

Alcaraz made adjustments in his return game, choosing to stand a few meters behind the baseline in the second set to ensure the ball was in play and win points in rallies, achieving a 63% points won on return.

In the third set, the 2023 Indian Wells champion maintained his impeccable service and completed his ninth consecutive game won to take a 3-0 lead in the decisive set. Arnaldi showed a slight reaction by winning his service for the first time after four consecutive breaks and then putting pressure on Alcaraz, who saved two break points against him.

Despite facing adversity, Arnaldi took more risks in the final games, but it wasn't enough to counter an inspired Alcaraz, who secured one last break before closing out the match 6-7(5), 6-0, 6-1.

In the third round, Alcaraz will face Felix Auger-Aliassime (No. 31), whom he has encountered four times with only one victory, occurring a year ago in the quarterfinals of Indian Wells.