World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz delivered a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the 2025 Australian Open, defeating hometown favorite Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 6-4 in a challenging exhibition match. The Spaniard rebounded from a loss to Alex de Minaur, showcasing resilience and a flair for clutch moments as he prepares to chase his fifth Grand Slam title.
Dominance Early On
Alcaraz set the tone early, breaking Popyrin twice in the first set to seize control. The Spaniard’s aggressive baseline play and sharp return game proved too much for the Aussie, who struggled to keep pace. A decisive break in the fifth game put Alcaraz ahead 3-2, and he maintained the momentum with a love hold and a crafty winner at the net to extend the lead to 5-3. A return winner in the ninth game sealed the set 6-3 in just 40 minutes.
Second Set Drama
The second set appeared to follow the same script as Alcaraz broke early and raced to a 4-1 lead. Popyrin, however, showed his fighting spirit, capitalizing on a rare dip in Alcaraz’s focus to break back in the seventh game.
The ninth game turned into a marathon battle, lasting 14 grueling minutes. Popyrin earned three break points, but Alcaraz’s poise under pressure shone through as he denied all three opportunities to hold for a 5-4 lead.
The Decisive Finish
With the momentum firmly back on his side, Alcaraz stepped up on the return in the 10th game, creating a match point. Popyrin’s loose drop shot provided the opening Alcaraz needed to close out the match.
“It was a tough match, but these are the challenges I need before a Slam,” Alcaraz said post-match. “I feel like my game is coming together.”
What This Means for Alcaraz
The win serves as a vital confidence booster for Alcaraz, who has been fine-tuning his form in Melbourne. While his recent loss to de Minaur raised some questions, this victory over Popyrin showed his ability to handle adversity and maintain composure under pressure.
With his powerful groundstrokes, exceptional movement, and the ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, Alcaraz looks poised to make a deep run at the Australian Open. However, his lapses in focus and inconsistency during key moments—like the seventh game in the second set—remain areas to watch as the tournament unfolds.
Popyrin’s Fight Not Enough
For Alexei Popyrin, the loss highlighted both his potential and the gap he must close to compete with the game’s elite. His late push in the second set thrilled the home crowd, but ultimately, the Aussie couldn’t capitalize on his chances in the critical ninth game.
The Road Ahead
Alcaraz will carry this momentum into the Australian Open, where he is among the top contenders. With his tactical adjustments and a renewed focus on consistency, the Spaniard aims to add the Melbourne title to his growing Grand Slam collection.