'Eager To Continue...'! Carlos Alcaraz Sends Ominous Warning As Australian Open Heats Up By The Day

Last Updated:January 23, 2026, 18:22 IST

Alcaraz's victory over Corentin Moutet set up a quarter-final spot contest against American 19th seed Tommy Paul, who progressed after Alejandro Davidovich Fokina withdrew.

Carlos Alcaraz. (AP)

Carlos Alcaraz expressed confidence that his performance was improving consistently after advancing to the Australian Open’s last 16 on Friday. The top-seeded Spaniard efficiently won his 100th Grand Slam match, defeating French player Corentin Moutet 6-2, 6-4, 6-1.

Alcaraz’s victory set up a quarter-final spot contest against American 19th seed Tommy Paul, who moved ahead after Spanish competitor Alejandro Davidovich Fokina withdrew due to injury.

“I think my level is getting better and better," said the six-time Grand Slam champion.

Commenting on his opponent, Alcaraz noted, “Corentin doesn’t play with much rhythm, using dropshots and slices. It can be tricky to find a good rhythm, but I managed to do so today, and I’m very pleased with that. I’m eager to continue this progress."

Alcaraz has not advanced beyond the quarter-finals in his four previous visits to Melbourne Park, with the Australian Open being the only Grand Slam missing from his collection. At 22, he would become the youngest man to win all four majors if he succeeds.

His victory in the 100th Slam match brought his impressive win-loss record to 87-13, equal to the legendary Bjorn Borg at the same stage of his career. Facing Paul next, Alcaraz acknowledged the American’s skills, saying, “He has great shots and good hands. I need to play my tennis and my best shots to win. I know it will be tough, and I have to be prepared for difficult moments."

Moutet, who had never defeated a world number one, struggled to match Alcaraz on the centre court. The Spaniard quickly broke Moutet in the opening game and held serve to lead 2-0. Though Moutet managed to hold in the third game, Alcaraz dominated the set, winning it in 35 minutes.

An immediate break in the second set established Alcaraz’s control. Moutet fought back from 0-3 down, using underarm serves, dropshots, and tweeners, but Alcaraz regained composure to win the set before comfortably securing the third.

News sports tennis 'Eager To Continue...'! Carlos Alcaraz Sends Ominous Warning As Australian Open Heats Up By The Day

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