Carlos Alcaraz won his first match since his Australian Open triumph, beating Arthur Rinderknech 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) in the Qatar Open first round.
The 22-year-old Spaniard, who became the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam, had to save two set points in the second set but eventually sealed the win with a strong forehand. Alcaraz hit 28 winners and said he was pleased to get through some “difficult moments.”
The victory marks his 150th hard-court win at tour level and keeps his 2026 season unbeaten at 8-0. He will face Valentin Royer in the second round.
