Andrey Rublev halted Carlos Alcaraz’s bid for a historic third consecutive Madrid Open title, ending the Spaniard’s 14-match winning streak in the tournament. In a hard-fought quarter-final clash, Rublev rallied from a set down to defeat the second-seeded Alcaraz 4-6 6-3 6-2.
Alcaraz, the 20-year-old sensation, was aiming to carve his name into the history books as the first player to clinch three straight Madrid Open singles titles. However, a determined Rublev, seeded seventh, had other plans, showcasing his resilience and firepower to overcome the reigning champion.
The Russian’s victory not only snapped his own four-match losing streak but also set up a semi-final showdown with American Taylor Fritz, who secured his 250th tour-level win by defeating Francisco Cerundolo.
Rublev’s triumph marks a significant milestone in his career, with the 24-year-old clinching just his second ATP 1000 title. Meanwhile, Alcaraz’s exit dealt a blow to Spain’s home hopes in Madrid, compounded by Rafael Nadal’s earlier defeat.
In other developments, world number two Jannik Sinner withdrew from the tournament due to a right-hip injury, conceding a walk-over to Felix Auger-Aliassime, who advances to the semi-finals. Auger-Aliassime awaits the winner of the clash between Jiri Lehecka and Daniil Medvedev.
On the women’s side, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka cruised into the semi-finals with a dominant straight-sets victory over Mirra Andreeva. Sabalenka, the second seed, remains a formidable force as she eyes her first semi-final appearance since her Australian Open triumph.
Her opponent, Elena Rybakina, sealed her semi-final berth after a gritty comeback win against Yulia Putintseva. Rybakina, the fourth seed and Wimbledon champion in 2022, anticipates a challenging battle against Sabalenka in what promises to be an electrifying showdown.