Alcaraz, Sabalenka dominate US Open first round returns

Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka advanced swiftly through the first round of the US Open on Tuesday, both champions extending their dominance on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows. Alcaraz claimed a commanding straight-set victory in his comeback match, marking his return to professional competition after 139 days sidelined by injury. The Spanish star showed no signs of rust despite the extended absence, moving with purpose and precision throughout his opening encounter. Sabalenka, the defending women's champion, likewise dispatched her opponent in straight sets with characteristic aggression. The Belarusian player's powerful baseline game proved too much for her first-round rival, as she continued her pursuit of consecutive US Open titles. Both champions are now positioned to advance deeper into the tournament, with early-round victories under their belts. Their strong starts suggest they remain among the favorites to claim the respective singles titles at the year's final Grand Slam.