Alcaraz Thrills, Pegula Advances, and Cirstea's Trophy Goes Missing at US Open

Carlos Alcaraz delighted the New York audience with a spectacular behind-the-back shot, en route to a victory over Arthur Rinderknech in the US Open. This win made the Spanish player the youngest man in the Open era to reach 13 grand slam quarterfinals. Alcaraz admitted to practicing such shots occasionally, stating he seizes the opportunity during matches if it arises.

At 22 years old, Alcaraz is younger than Boris Becker was when he achieved his 13th major quarterfinal. His next opponent will be Jiri Lehecka, a 23-year-old from the Czech Republic. Lehecka secured his spot in the quarterfinals by defeating Adrian Mannarino.

Early in the match against Rinderknech, Alcaraz executed a remarkable shot to hold serve. After being wrong-footed, he wrapped his racket around his body and flicked the ball up the line. The point's unexpected continuation led to Rinderknech's volley landing in the net. Alcaraz, with a smile, acknowledged the crowd's cheers. He expressed his enjoyment of this style of play, noting its compatibility with the energy of the event.

Alcaraz went on to win the set in a tiebreaker. He later produced another highlight with a no-look passing winner. By the final game, even Rinderknech was smiling at Alcaraz's exceptional strokes. Alcaraz has won a significant number of service games throughout the tournament. He previously won the US Open title in 2022. This marks Alcaraz's fourth major quarterfinal of the year, a first in his career. He faced setbacks at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, but won the French Open.

Jessica Pegula has advanced to the quarterfinals of a grand slam tournament. She secured her place by defeating Ann Li in a swift match. Pegula has not dropped a set in the tournament. She described the match as one of her best performances recently, highlighting her execution of strategy.

Pegula had previously struggled in grand slam quarterfinals before a victory last year. She went on to reach the final, where she was defeated. She expressed satisfaction with her performance, considering her recent struggles. Pegula will face either Barbora Krejcikova or Taylor Townsend in the next round.

Ann Li, ranked 58th, was overpowered in her first appearance in the round of 16 in a major. Pegula dominated, breaking Li's serve multiple times.

Sorana Cirstea reported the theft of her trophy from a recent women's tournament from her hotel room during the US Open. She appealed for its return, emphasizing its sentimental value. Cirstea, who won her third career singles title earlier this month, lost in the second round of the US Open. The hotel declined to comment.