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Carlos Alcaraz continued his title defence at the US Open 2026 with a straight-sets victory over China’s Wu Yibing, winning 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 to reach the fourth round.
The defending champion needed just over two hours to complete the victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium, extending his Grand Slam match-winning streak to 17 matches. The result also continued his return to competitive tennis after more than four months away while recovering from an injury to his right wrist.
Alcaraz Overcomes Wu Yibing in Straight Sets
The scoreline suggested a comfortable afternoon for Alcaraz, but Wu provided periods of resistance during the opening two sets.
Both players were level at 3-3 in the first set before Alcaraz began to pull away. Wu managed to recover an early break, but Alcaraz regained control and eventually took the set 6-3.
The second set followed a similar pattern. Wu remained competitive and managed to challenge Alcaraz during several games, but the Spaniard converted his opportunities and moved two sets ahead with a 6-4 score.
Alcaraz then took control of the third set. Wu created two break points early in the set, but Alcaraz saved both before winning the next five games to close out the match 6-1.
| Match Detail | Result |
| Opponent | Wu Yibing |
| Round | Third round |
| Score | 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 |
| Match time | 2 hours 19 minutes |
| Grand Slam winning streak | 17 matches |
| Next opponent | Tommy Paul |
A Strong Return After Wrist Injury
The victory is another important step in Alcaraz’s return following a lengthy absence from competition.
The Spaniard had been away from competitive tennis for more than four months while recovering from a right-wrist injury. He returned at the US Open 2026 after a 139-day gap between competitive matches.
Alcaraz has now progressed through three rounds in New York. His opening match saw him defeat Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, while he recovered from losing the opening set against Jaime Faria in the second round to win 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2.
After the victory over Wu, Alcaraz said he felt better physically than he had expected following his long absence.
Wu Yibing Provides a Competitive Challenge
Wu entered the match ranked 113th in the world and was attempting to become the first Chinese man in the professional era to reach the last 16 of a Grand Slam singles tournament.
Although he was unable to achieve that milestone, Wu made Alcaraz work for his victory during the first two sets.
Wu finished with 12 winners but also made 40 unforced errors. Alcaraz recorded 21 winners and converted seven of his 15 break-point opportunities.
The victory also improved Alcaraz’s head-to-head record against Wu to 2-0. Their previous meeting came at the 2024 Shanghai Masters, where Alcaraz also won in straight sets.
Tommy Paul Awaits in the Fourth Round
Alcaraz’s next challenge at the US Open 2026 will be American 20th seed Tommy Paul.
Paul reached the fourth round after defeating Alexander Bublik in a five-set contest, winning 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-3.
The upcoming match will be another test for Alcaraz as he continues his comeback. The Spaniard has won six of his eight previous meetings with Paul, including their most recent encounter at the 2026 Australian Open.
The match is scheduled for September 6.
Alcaraz Continues His Title Defence
The US Open 2026 represents an important opportunity for Alcaraz as he attempts to defend the title he won in 2025.
He is seeking to become the first man since Roger Federer to successfully defend the US Open men’s singles championship. Federer won the tournament five consecutive times from 2004 through 2008.
Alcaraz has already established a strong record at Flushing Meadows. His latest victory improved his US Open record to 27-3, giving him a winning percentage of .900 at the tournament, according to the US Open.
His current Grand Slam winning streak also highlights his recent success. The 17-match run includes his victories at the 2025 US Open and 2026 Australian Open.
What Comes Next at the US Open 2026?
Alcaraz will now prepare for his fourth-round meeting with Paul, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake.
For Alcaraz, the immediate priority will be maintaining his physical condition and continuing to build match rhythm following his extended time away from the tour.
His progress through the first three rounds has given him another opportunity to test his wrist and overall fitness under Grand Slam conditions. The fourth-round clash with Paul should provide a tougher challenge as the competition becomes more demanding.
FAQs
What was the score between Carlos Alcaraz and Wu Yibing?
Carlos Alcaraz defeated Wu Yibing 6-3, 6-4, 6-1 in the third round of the US Open 2026.
How many Grand Slam matches has Alcaraz won consecutively?
The victory over Wu extended Alcaraz’s Grand Slam match-winning streak to 17 matches.
Who will Alcaraz play next?
Alcaraz will face American 20th seed Tommy Paul in the fourth round.
Why was Alcaraz away from tennis?
Alcaraz returned to competition after more than four months away while recovering from an injury to his right wrist.
Is Alcaraz defending his US Open title?
Yes. Alcaraz won the 2025 US Open and is attempting to defend the championship at the US Open 2026.
Conclusion
Carlos Alcaraz has reached the fourth round of the US Open 2026 after defeating Wu Yibing 6-3, 6-4, 6-1.
The victory extended his Grand Slam winning streak to 17 matches and marked another positive step in his return after more than four months away from competition due to a right-wrist injury.
Alcaraz will next face Tommy Paul, who reached the fourth round after a five-set victory over Alexander Bublik. With his title defence continuing and the competition becoming tougher, the upcoming match will provide another important test of Alcaraz’s form and fitness.
For now, his successful progression through the opening three rounds has kept his bid for back-to-back US Open titles firmly on track.