Alcaraz Extends Winning Streak, Advances to Doha Quarterfinals
Doha, Qatar – February 18, 2026 – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz continued his dominant form, battling back from a second-set deficit to defeat Valentin Royer 6-2, 7-5 on Wednesday at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open. The victory extends Alcaraz’s winning streak to nine matches, building on his recent Australian Open title. He will face Karen Khachanov in the quarterfinals on Thursday, seeking a spot in the last four. Alcaraz rallied from 2-5 down in the second set, reeling off five consecutive games to secure the straight-sets win in 96 minutes. He now boasts a 27-match winning streak on outdoor hard courts.
Alcaraz Extends Winning Streak, Advances to Quarterfinals in Doha
World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz continued his impressive form, securing a straight-sets victory over Valentin Royer 6-2, 7-5 at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open on Wednesday.
Dominant Performance Despite Second-Set Challenge
Carlos Alcaraz demonstrated his resilience and skill, overcoming a late challenge from Royer to reach the quarter-finals.
The top-ranked player reeled off five consecutive games from a 2-5 deficit in the second set, showcasing his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.
Alcaraz completed the 96-minute triumph, extending his winning streak to nine matches.
Alcaraz Reflects on a Tough Battle
“Obviously I had to be prepared for everything,” Alcaraz stated after the match.
“There were some moments when I thought about a third set, I’m not going to lie, but obviously it was just a small place in my mind that was thinking that. The rest was working to find solutions, to find the right way again.”
“I’m just really pleased and really happy I was able to find good rhythm again, and good tennis. It’s just about fighting. I know tennis. It’s just about one point, and sometimes it is really demanding to close out the set or the match. I just had to stay there, and I’m happy I turned it around and got the win in straight sets.”
Looking Ahead: Quarterfinal Clash with Khachanov
Now on a nine-match winning streak, building on his Australian Open title, Alcaraz will face Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals on Thursday.
The seventh-seeded Khachanov, the 2024 champion in Doha, defeated Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 earlier in the day.
Alcaraz’s Impressive Hard-Court Run
Alcaraz boasts an impressive 27-match winning streak on outdoor hard courts, dating back to his title run at the Cincinnati Open last August.
The 22-year-old is aiming for his maiden trophy in Doha, having reached the quarter-final stage in his debut appearance last year.
Royer’s Positive Takeaways
Despite the defeat, Valentin Royer can take several positives from his first Lexus ATP Head2Head clash with Alcaraz.
Royer has risen seven spots to No. 53 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings after reaching the second round in Doha.
The 24-year-old Frenchman showed composure as he moved within a game of the second set, but ultimately couldn’t counter Alcaraz’s late surge.
Key Stats and Match Details
Alcaraz converted four of eight break points during the match, according to Infosys ATP Stats.
He initially broke to move back on serve and then leveled at 5-5, producing stunning passing shots to secure a second consecutive break for 6-5, ultimately closing out the win.
Did you know? Carlos Alcaraz is the youngest man to complete the Career Grand Slam, achieving this feat at the Australian Open.
FAQ
- What is Carlos Alcaraz’s current winning streak?
He is currently on a nine-match winning streak. - Who will Alcaraz face in the quarter-finals?
He will face Karen Khachanov. - What was Alcaraz’s best result in Doha prior to 2026?
He reached the quarter-final stage in 2025.
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