Defending champions Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz are back in the quarterfinals at the US Open, and both got there without dropping a set on Sunday. The top-ranked Sabalenka solved some early struggles on her serve and overpowered American Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3. Alcaraz also advanced in straight sets, beating Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in the second match at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Sabalenka steadies against Townsend
Sabalenka looked unsettled in the opening games as Townsend attacked her serve with aggressive returns. The Belarusian held her nerve, tightened her serving, and took control of the match as it went on. Townsend, a dangerous opponent on home soil, kept the second set close before Sabalenka pulled away. The world number one has now won every set she has played in this year's tournament and remains the favorite to keep her title.
Alcaraz rolls past Paul
Alcaraz produced another clinical display against Tommy Paul, a fellow American crowd favorite. The Spaniard mixed heavy forehands with delicate drop shots and never allowed Paul to build momentum. Alcaraz is chasing a third US Open title and has looked sharp through four rounds, losing only one set so far in the tournament. The match drew a lively evening crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where Paul had the backing of the home fans but could not find a way through Alcaraz's all-court game. His quarterfinal opponent will be eager to test him after watching his run of form.
American men surge into the last eight
The day belonged in part to the American men. Frances Tiafoe knocked out former champion Daniil Medvedev to reach the quarterfinals, and Alex Michelsen also advanced, extending a strong run by US men who are trying to end a long Grand Slam drought. In the women's draw, Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro both reached the quarterfinals, setting up a top half of the bracket that includes Sabalenka, who will next face Czech teenager Linda Noskova.