‘Tough conditions, but I’m happy to advance’

Carlos Alcaraz made a winning start at the ATP 500 event in Barcelona. Competing two days after conquering the Monte Carlo Masters, the 21-year-old bested Ethan Quinn 6-2, 7-6 in an hour and 46 minutes.

Carlos did not play at his best, but it was enough to seal the deal in straight sets after saving a set point in the tie break. The Spaniard admitted it was not easy to adapt to different conditions, although he liked the outcome of the encounter. 

While recognizing ups and downs in windy conditions, Alcaraz enjoyed his first match at one of his favorite tournaments. He hopes for another good run in his next duel on Thursday.

2x Champion Carlos Alcaraz off to a winning start in Barcelona

6-2 7-6(6) vs Ethan Quinn

Carlos was tested in set 2 with his serve broken three times and saved a set point, but his forehand versatility & superior offense from defensive positions won it.pic.twitter.com/H6RU2g6w6Q

— TennisONE App (@TennisONEApp) April 15, 2025

World no. 2 overcame issues on serve in the first set and provided a double break for a 6-2 advantage. They traded breaks three times in the second set. Ethan led 3-1 and pulled the break back at 5-6 before generating a set point in the tie break. 

Alcaraz denied it and sealed the deal in straight sets. Both players made too many forehand errors. The home favorite forged the advantage from the baseline and moved over the top after taking 19 points more than his opponent.

Both players saved break points at the beginning of the duel. Carlos made a push on the return and grabbed breaks in games three and five to open a 4-1 gap. Alcaraz missed a set point on the return in game seven before holding at 15 in the next one for 6-2 in 44 minutes.

The second set started with four breaks in five games. Ethan landed a forehand winner in the fourth game for a 3-1 lead before Carlos pulled it back in the next one with a volley winner. They served well in the upcoming…