Alcaraz, Sabalenka advance to US Open quarter-finals as defending champions

Alcaraz sealed his quarter-final berth with a straight-sets triumph over Paul, dispatching the American 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in a performance that signalled the Spanish player's resurgence at Flushing Meadows. The second-seeded defending champion appeared increasingly comfortable throughout the contest, moving closer to the dominant form that has defined his career.

Alcaraz's victory continues the strong showing by top seeds at this year's tournament. The 21-year-old has now secured his place among the last eight competitors vying for the championship title he won in 2022.

Sabalenka's progression to the quarter-finals maintains the presence of last year's champion in the latter stages of the competition. Her continued presence in the draw underscores the consistency of defending champions at the year's final Grand Slam event.

The pair's advancement sets up potential matchups in the semi-final stages as the tournament reaches its climax in New York.