Alcaraz Overcomes Injury Scare to Advance in Barcelona

Carlos Alcaraz made a triumphant return to action in Barcelona, defeating Otto Virtanen 6-4, 6-2 to reach the last 16, despite a worrying injury scare. The Spaniard, who needs to win the tournament to reclaim the world No 1 spot from Jannik Sinner, received a medical timeout for a wrist issue at the end of the first set but showed no signs of discomfort during his 85-minute win. Alcaraz, who faces Tomas Machac next, expressed his delight at getting back to winning ways on home soil, saying, 'It feels great to be back and get another win in front of my people in Barcelona, it means everything.' He is now chasing his third title of the season, having completed the career Grand Slam at the Australian Open and triumphed in Doha. With the opportunity to quickly reclaim the world No 1 ranking from Sinner, Alcaraz is motivated, but his top priority remains steady improvement during the clay season. The two-time champion in Barcelona is boosted by Sinner's absence in the draw and hopes to play a full schedule on clay this season, with events to follow in Madrid and Rome ahead of his French Open title defence.