Alcaraz Overcomes Injury Scare to Advance in Barcelona

Carlos Alcaraz made a successful return to action in Barcelona, defeating Otto Virtanen 6-4, 6-2 to reach the last 16, just 48 hours after his Monte-Carlo Masters final loss to Jannik Sinner. Alcaraz, who needs to win the tournament to reclaim the world No 1 spot, received a medical timeout for a wrist issue but showed no signs of discomfort during his 85-minute win. "It feels great to be back and get another win in front of my people in Barcelona, it means everything," Alcaraz said. He faces Tomas Machac next and is chasing his third title of the season. Alcaraz is motivated to reclaim the top ranking from Sinner but prioritizes steady improvement during the clay season. With Sinner absent from the draw, Alcaraz's chances of winning the tournament are boosted. He hopes to play a full schedule on clay this season, with events in Madrid and Rome ahead of his French Open title defence.