Frances Tiafoe praises Carlos Alcaraz after beating him in Barcelona

In one of the most anticipated opening round matches, Frances Tiafoe defeated Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 7-6 in an hour and 43 minutes at the ATP 500 event in Barcelona.

The American lost serve twice and produced three breaks that carried him home after a tight second set that he took in the tie break. Tiafoe had 19 winners and 18 unforced errors, taming his strokes nicely and overpowering the 17-year-old, who gave his best to stay in touch.

Frances opened a 5-1 lead in the opening set before Carlos pulled one break back, reducing the deficit to 4-5 before Tiafoe seized the fifth set point for 6-4. A teenager moved 4-1 in front in set number two but couldn't keep the advantage, getting broken in game seven and losing the tie break to propel the rival over the top.

"This boy is very special, and it is a pleasure to see him grow on the circuit. Today was not his day. I am thrilled to have achieved this victory and to continue advancing in the tournament. I am very excited to play against Diego. We have had many opportunities to play, but I always lost before I could play against him. We are good friends on the circuit," Frances Tiafoe said.