Machac Stuns Alcaraz at Shanghai Masters Quarterfinals

No. 2-ranked Carlos Alcaraz‘s impressive 12-match winning streak was brought to an end by Tomas Machac in a dramatic 7-6(5), 7-5 defeat at the Shanghai Masters quarterfinals on Thursday. Machac’s victory marked his third tour-level quarterfinal and second occasion of defeating a top-five player this year, highlighting his rising prowess on the tour.

Alcaraz, visibly struggling to find answers to Machac’s relentless play, acknowledged his opponent’s high level throughout the match. “His level was so high. I thought he was going to give me an opportunity, a window, but he didn’t,” said Alcaraz.

Machac will now advance to face top-ranked Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Sinner reached his fifth ATP Masters semifinal of the season by decisively defeating Daniil Medvedev 6-1, 6-4. The Italian displayed impressive form, overcoming his Russian opponent with minimal difficulty.

In related news, Aryna Sabalenka rallied from a set down to vanquish Yulia Putintseva at the Wuhan Open. Sabalenka’s victory further solidified her status atop the WTA rankings, while in Wuhan, Coco Gauff continued her dominant streak, cruising past Marta Kostyuk to secure a quarterfinal spot.