Shanghai Masters, world number two Carlos Alcaraz was eliminated in the third round by unseeded Czech player Tomas Machac. The 20-year-old Spaniard, known for his explosive game and recent success on the ATP Tour, was stunned by the resilience and tactical play of Machac, ranked 73rd in the world.
Alcaraz entered the match as a heavy favorite, but Machac delivered a masterclass in composure and consistency. After losing the first set, the Czech player battled back to win 7-6 (7-4), 6-2, displaying remarkable grit against one of tennis’s rising stars.
This defeat comes as a surprise, considering Alcaraz’s strong performance throughout the year, which included a Wimbledon title and multiple top-tier victories. However, Machac capitalized on key moments, forcing Alcaraz into errors and keeping the pressure on during extended rallies.
“I knew I had to play my best tennis,” Machac said after the match. “Alcaraz is an incredible player, but I stayed focused and took my chances.”
For Alcaraz, this marks an unexpected exit from a tournament where many expected him to challenge for the title. Despite the loss, the young star remains optimistic, saying, “It’s tough, but I’ll learn from this. I’ll come back stronger.”
The victory is a significant achievement for Machac, who now advances to the fourth round, where he will face another tough opponent. With this upset, the Shanghai Masters continues to deliver thrilling surprises as the tournament progresses.
