Alcaraz Powers Past Ruud in Straight Sets

World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz continued his dominant form at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, securing a straight-set victory over Casper Ruud on Wednesday. Alcaraz defeated Ruud 6-1, 7-6(2) to reach the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive year.

The Spaniard started strong, racing through the first set in just 37 minutes after breaking Ruud’s serve three times. Ruud mounted a stronger challenge in the second set, forcing a tiebreak, but Alcaraz ultimately prevailed.

Looking Ahead: Quarterfinal Matchup Against Cameron Norrie

Alcaraz will next face 2021 Indian Wells champion Cameron Norrie in the quarterfinals. This will be a rematch of a previous encounter, with Norrie having defeated Alcaraz in their last meeting at the Paris Masters.

It’s going to be very difficult against Cam. We have had great battles in the past and, I lost the last match against him, so I am looking forward to revenge. Carlos Alcaraz

Alcaraz acknowledged the challenge Norrie presents, noting his opponent’s fighting spirit and ability to change the height of the ball.

Alcaraz Reflects on Performance and Routine

Following the match, Alcaraz expressed satisfaction with his performance.

I’m really happy with how I played today. I think I played at a very high level of tennis in both sets. I’m very satisfied, because I met the goals I set for myself at the beginning of the match. I hope I can maintain this same level in the next round. Carlos Alcaraz

He also revealed a change in his pre-game routine, stating he no longer drinks an espresso before matches. I used to have an espresso before every game, but not anymore. Now I do other things. I guess over time people change. he said.

Impressive Run Continues

With this victory, Alcaraz extended his unbeaten streak to 15 matches in 2026, following his triumph at the Australian Open in January and an ATP 500 title in Doha. He is seeking his third Indian Wells title in four years, having previously won in 2023 and 2024.

Alcaraz on Rising Star João Fonseca

Alcaraz also commented on the impressive performance of young player João Fonseca against Jannik Sinner.

I saw part of the match Jannik contra João although I couldn’t see it in full. He is playing incredible tennis. When someone takes Jannik to two tie-breaks (7-6, 7-6), It means that he has played at a very high level. I am very happy to see João grow as a player. He is very young and I am sure he will learn a lot from these types of experiences. I like to see how players evolve, and I am convinced that we will see much more of him in the future. Carlos Alcaraz

Improvised Shot During the Match

Alcaraz also discussed an unexpected shot he executed during the match.

It’s not a shot that I practiced. I just felt like I could do it at that moment. Sometimes those things come naturally. For me, in that situation, it was even the easiest shot to execute. I thought, ‘Why not do it?’. They are decisions that come instinctively when you feel like you have the confidence to try it. Carlos Alcaraz