The ATP tournament in Cincinnati witnessed an intense showdown between Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz and Spain’s rising star Carlos Alcaraz. The match ended in a dramatic three-set battle, with Alcaraz securing victory with a final score of 6:2, 6:7(4), 3:6. Despite a valiant effort, Hurkacz was unable to capitalize on a match point against the current world-ranking leader.
Heading into the match, the odds were heavily in favor of the Spaniard, who has been making waves in the tennis world with recent victories at Wimbledon and the US Open, as well as clinching the top spot in the global rankings. However, Alcaraz had been facing some challenges in Cincinnati, which Hurkacz aimed to exploit.
The first set saw Hurkacz’s strategic gameplay come to fruition as he broke Alcaraz’s serve in the second game. Riding high on a solid service game, Hurkacz managed to maintain this advantage throughout the set. Despite Alcaraz’s attempts to turn the tables, including five break-point opportunities, the Polish player’s exceptional serving skills thwarted each attempt. Ultimately, Hurkacz secured the first set with a convincing score of 6:2.
The second set unfolded with Alcaraz stepping up his game, minimizing errors, and pushing Hurkacz to his limits. The Spaniard managed to create several break-point opportunities, but the Polish player’s remarkable serves allowed him to fend off eight breakpoints in the first two sets. The set reached a tie-break, where Hurkacz initially held a 4-1 lead. However, Alcaraz demonstrated his composure under pressure, rallying to win six consecutive points and the tie-break, thereby dashing Hurkacz’s hopes of sealing the match.
With momentum on his side, Alcaraz entered the third set with an unyielding determination. Breaking Hurkacz’s serve early at 2:1, he established a stronghold on the match. Despite his best efforts, a deflated Hurkacz struggled to regain control and ultimately succumbed to Alcaraz with a final set score of 3:6, conceding the match without a glimpse of a comeback opportunity.
Hurkacz’s encounter with Alcaraz marked yet another close encounter between the two players. A similar scenario had unfolded in Toronto, raising speculation of a potential third chapter in their rivalry at the upcoming US Open. Tennis enthusiasts are left wondering if the saying “third time’s the charm” will hold true in their anticipated face-off. Given Hurkacz’s affinity for playing on American soil, there is optimism that his skillset will translate into success on the courts of New York.
Two of the nicest guys on Tour.
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 19, 2023
One of the nicest rallies you'll see.
Ended with a high five! 🤗#CincyTennis @HubertHurkacz @carlosalcaraz pic.twitter.com/l4YLxXynDE