Carlos Alcaraz Overcomes Injury Scare Advances US Open Fourth Round

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the fourth round of the 2025 US Open despite a brief right knee injury scare, showing dominant form to defeat Italy's Luciano Darderi in straight sets. Alcaraz, the 2022 US Open champion and current world No. 2, called for a medical timeout during the second set but later reassured that the issue was minor and did not affect his performance. He is set to face France's Arthur Rinderknech in the next round, continuing his pursuit of another Grand Slam title after recent successes at the French Open and a Wimbledon final appearance. Meanwhile, American hopes for a men's champion faded as Ben Shelton retired injured due to a shoulder problem during his match, and Frances Tiafoe was also eliminated. Shelton, the 2023 semifinalist, left the court in tears, diminishing the chance of ending the USA's 22-year wait for a men's US Open winner. Alcaraz's resilience and skill remain a highlight of the tournament amid these American setbacks.