Carlos Alcaraz continued his impressive return to form at the Shanghai Masters, defeating Juan Manuel Cerundolo 6-3, 6-3 to cruise into the third round and extend his winning streak to seven matches.
The Spaniard, who recently defended his title in Tokyo, delivered another commanding display as he pursues a maiden Shanghai crown.
The world-class talent needed just 66 minutes to dispatch Cerundolo, blending powerful baseline play with frequent ventures to the net. Alcaraz struck 24 winners and adapted effectively to Shanghai’s quick court conditions, a strategy he said evolved during the match rather than forming part of the original game plan.
Adding a touch of personality to his campaign, Alcaraz appeared with a new moustache, revealing it was the result of a light-hearted promise made within his team following his title-winning run in Tokyo.
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The 2026 season has been a story of resilience for Alcaraz. After missing more than four months due to a wrist injury, the Spaniard has steadily rebuilt momentum, reaching the US Open quarter-finals, competing at the Laver Cup and lifting the Tokyo trophy before arriving in Shanghai.
Shanghai remains one of only three ATP Masters 1000 tournaments yet to be won by Alcaraz. He now has an opportunity to become the first Spanish man to claim the prestigious title. His next challenge will come against Zizou Bergs, with a potential fourth-round clash against defending champion Valentin Vacherot looming.
Meanwhile, Vacherot began his title defence on a positive note, overcoming Sebastian Baez 6-4, 7-6(5). The Monegasque star earned a place in ATP Masters 1000 history last year when he became the lowest-ranked champion at the level, triumphing in Shanghai as World No. 204.
Reflecting on his return to the court where he achieved the biggest success of his career, Vacherot admitted it was an emotional experience. He will next face Tommy Paul as he seeks to keep his title defence alive and set up a possible showdown with the in-form Alcaraz.
