Carlos Alcaraz kicked off his ATP Qatar Open campaign with a hard-fought 6-4, 6-4 victory over Croatian veteran Marin Cilic on a blustery Monday evening. The 21-year-old Spaniard faced a stern test from the former US Open champion but showcased resilience in key moments.
A crucial 18-minute seventh game in the first set saw Alcaraz secure a decisive break, while a dramatic recovery from 40-0 down in the second set\u2019s eighth game sealed his path to victory.
\"I\u2019m really happy to stay calm and execute in those pressure moments,\" Alcaraz said post-match, praising Cilic\u2019s returning prowess. The world No. 2 will next face either China\u2019s Zhang Zhizhen or Italy\u2019s Luca Nardi as he continues his Doha title bid.
Reference(s):
Alcaraz beats Cilic in windswept opening round match at ATP Qatar Open
cgtn.com
