'Playing better than I thought': Alcaraz enjoying impressive US Open comeback

The defending champion has looked increasingly comfortable in his return to Grand Slam tennis after missing four-and-a-half months with a wrist injury, with his latest victory taking him into the last 16 in New York.

Alcaraz faced questions over whether he was ready to return in the best-of-five-set format, but the seven-time Grand Slam champion has made an impressive start to his title defence and believes there is still more to come.

"Today was a really high rhythm. The way he plays, his balls leap around the court, but I stayed there and played aggressively and smart," said Alcaraz.

"In the toughest moments, I did everything good, which I'm really happy about.

"Could it be better? Yes. But overall I'm just really proud and happy with the performance today.

"To be honest, I'm playing better than I thought [after over four months out injured with his wrist].

"Physically, I thought I was going to be dead after the first match. But I'm recovering really well.

"My level right now is really good, I've got the rhythm of the competition every time I step on the court."

Next up for Alcaraz is American Tommy Paul - the 20th seed - in the Round of 16.

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