New York, Sept. 1 -- Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz made an impressive return to competitive tennis at the 2026 US Open, defeating Roman Safiullin in straight sets to advance in the men's singles draw.

The Spaniard, playing his first singles match in more than four months, overcame Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in a confident display at Flushing Meadows despite missing the French Open and Wimbledon since April after suffering a wrist injury.

The Tennis star looked increasingly comfortable as the match progressed and produced several trademark exchanges from the baseline. He also appeared to relish his return, breaking into a smile after winning a lengthy rally late in the opening set. Alcaraz maintained control in the second set before com...