Top Seed Stunned in Third Round

World number one Carlos Alcaraz experienced a surprising setback at the Miami Open on Sunday, falling to Sebastian Korda 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 in the third round. The defeat marks Alcaraz’s second loss in just eight days, following a semifinal exit at Indian Wells last week.

Match Recap: Korda Holds Nerve

Alcaraz began the tournament with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Joao Fonseca, but couldn’t maintain momentum against Korda, who secured the win after 2 hours and 18 minutes of play. Korda’s performance was highlighted by 12 aces and zero double faults, contrasting with Alcaraz’s two aces and two double faults.

Alcaraz recorded 30 winners against 25 unforced errors, whereas Korda tallied 33 winners. The Spaniard was broken three times, and Korda twice.

Alcaraz Remains World No. 1

Despite the early exit, Alcaraz is set to retain his position as the ATP’s world number one following the conclusion of the Miami tournament.

“I feel the process has been good. Besides the loss today, I think I’m still in the right way,”

Carlos Alcaraz

Alcaraz acknowledged that lower-ranked opponents often play with greater freedom against him, stating, “I’m feeling they have more to win than to lose in those matches. They’re playing without pressure.”

Other Notable Results

In other matches on Sunday, Taylor Fritz defeated Reilly Opelka 6-3, 6-4, and Jiri Lehecka overcame Ethan Quinn 6-3, 7-6 (6). Tommy Paul narrowly defeated Raphaël Collignon 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (5), while Karen Khachanov was upset by Martín Landaluce 6-3, 7-6 (2).

On the women’s side, Elena Rybakina defeated Marta Kostyuk 6-3, 6-4. Yet, Jasmine Paolini fell to Jelena Ostapenko 5-7, 6-2, 7-5, and Elina Svitolina was surprised by Hailey Baptiste 6-3, 7-5.

Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one, advanced with a straightforward 6-4, 6-2 win over Catherine McNally.

Looking Ahead

Alcaraz will now prepare for the clay-court season, aiming to build on the positive aspects of his game despite the recent setbacks.

FAQ

Who defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the Miami Open?

Sebastian Korda defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the third round of the Miami Open.

What is Carlos Alcaraz’s current ranking?

Carlos Alcaraz is currently ranked world No. 1.

What were the match scores?

The match scores were 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 in favor of Sebastian Korda.