Indian Wells: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes nerves to open Indian Wells title defence with win over Quentin Halys
Published 08/03/2025 at 23:59 GMT
Two-time Indian Wells winner Carlos Alcaraz began his quest for a third title with a routine win over Quentin Halys, beating the Frenchman 6-4 6-2 on Saturday. The Spaniard is bidding to become the third male player alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic to win three consecutive Indian Wells titles. Even with two titles, Alcaraz still felt the nerves in his first Indian Wells match this year.
Carlos Alcaraz of Spain celebrates in the player tunnel after his straight sets victory against Quentin Halys of France in their second round match during the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells Tennis Garden on March 08, 2025 in Indian Wells, California
Image credit: Getty Images
Carlos Alcaraz admitted he was "really nervous" as he embarked on the defence of his Indian Wells title on Saturday, beating Quentin Halys 6-4 6-2 in California.
Should the Spaniard reach the final, he will become the third man to do so alongside Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
Alcaraz beat Daniil Medvedev in both the 2023 and 2024 finals, but found life tough at the start of his defence.
"I was really nervous, it wasn’t easy to control the emotions," said Alcaraz, who made it 13 wins in a row at the California venue.
"I had to be focused to calm down, to take control of the nerves and try and play good tennis. I think it did pretty well. I’m really happy to get through and start the title defence.
"It’s slow, the ball bounces a lot, the conditions are pretty good for me. I just love playing here. I feel at home, really calm off the court. The fans have always been good to me, so I just appreciate that love and support. Everything here suits me and my game."
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Alcaraz was too much for Halys to handle and the Frenchman was unable to take advantage of his one big moment, when he had a break point at 4-5 in the first set.
The young champion fired a ripping forehand after Halys failed to apply enough pressure and drowned any hope that Halys had of clinching the first set.
Alcaraz came out in the second set with an added dynamism and was clinical behind his serves, winning 95% of points behind his first delivery.
He made several breaks in the second and raced to a 4-0 lead. Despite Halys holding in games five and seven, Alcaraz served for the win at 5-2 and booked his spot in the third round.
The world No. 3 will take on Denis Shapovalov next, after he secured a 6-3 6-2 win over qualifier Adam Walton.
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