Carlos Alcaraz has extended his winning streak to 19 matches after beating Karen Khachanov 6-4 7-5 in Madrid.
The Spaniard produced another dominant all-round display as he reached the semi-finals in Madrid.
After defending his Barcelona title last week, Alcaraz looks set to do the same in Madrid as he has now won the last 19 matches in his home country.
It was another incredible performance as Alcaraz hit 31 winners in a match that saw him seal a 27th match win of the season.
Speaking after his victory over Khachanov, Alcaraz admitted it was a tough battle but a mid-match pep talk helped him to victory, “It was pretty tough. The first set as well, it was close,” Alcaraz explained to the ATP website.
“I was in trouble in the second set, a break down and [he had] two break points to have the second break. So it was really tough for me to come back and he had his chances to win the second set.
“Luckily I knew I was going to have my chances. I just tried to take my opportunities and I’m really happy to get through.
“I talk with myself a lot during the match, telling myself that I have to be passive and not to be in a rush in the point. Of course, a lot of things come to my mind, drop shots and a lot of [other] things, and sometimes it is tough to choose one.”
Alcaraz’s lack of decision making certainly isn’t negatively affecting the Spaniard’s results as he aims to successfully defend his Madrid title.
Next for Alcaraz will either be Borna Coric or lucky loser Daniel Altmaier who play in the second semi-final.
Should Alcaraz win the title this week then the Spaniard will regain the world number one spot next week if he steps onto court in Rome.
