Carlos Alcaraz Advances to Australian Open Round of 16 as Shang Retires

Carlos Alcaraz has advanced to the Australian Open’s round of 16 for the first time in his career as Shang Juncheng retired with Alcaraz leading 6-1, 6-1, 1-0.

The victory propels the second seed into the next round, where he will face Miomir Kecmanovic. Alcaraz dominated the match, with Shang retiring due to a thigh injury that had been affecting his mobility.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Alcaraz expressed well wishes for his opponent’s speedy recovery. This tournament marks the first time Alcaraz has played a tour-level match against a younger opponent, showcasing his prowess with a combination of drawing out unforced errors and powerful winners.

His impressive performance has landed him in the second week of the Australian Open, and he aims to continue improving on his results from the previous year.

Positioned on the opposite side of the draw from Novak Djokovic, Alcaraz eyes a potential showdown for the world No. 1 spot if both reach the final.