Alcaraz wins US Open opener pain-free after wrist injury scare

Carlos Alcaraz made a successful return to Grand Slam tennis by defeating Roman Safiullin in straight sets in his opening match at the US Open. The Spanish player had faced concerns over a wrist injury heading into the tournament but confirmed he was completely pain-free during the match. Alcaraz admitted to feeling unusually nervous on his return but expressed a desire to enjoy his run at the event. His title prospects have been boosted by Novak Djokovic's early exit and an injury setback to Jannik Sinner. Defending women's champion Aryna Sabalenka also opened her campaign with a victory.