Team Europe established a 3-1 lead over Team World on the opening day of the Laver Cup at the O2 Arena, with Carlos Alcaraz playing a central role both on and off the court.
Alcaraz and Jakub Mensik defeated Alexander Bublik and Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 in the doubles, marking just the second competitive appearance of Alcaraz's comeback after a four-and-a-half-month layoff due to a right wrist injury.
Alcaraz's coaching role
In his third Laver Cup outing, the seven-time grand slam champion at times took on the role of Europe's third coach behind Yannick Noah and Tim Henman. During Casper Ruud's match, Alcaraz suggested the Norwegian should attempt more down-the-line backhands and drop shots to draw Francisco Cerundolo into uncomfortable positions, with the goal to "make [Cerundolo] think a little bit more."
Alcaraz's enthusiasm was evident as he cheered, animated the crowd, and offered tactical advice to his teammates throughout the day.
Return from injury
Alcaraz was sidelined from April till August due to a right wrist injury. His first tournament back, at the US Open two weeks ago, ended in a fifth-set tiebreak loss to Ben Shelton at 3.33am, but Alcaraz was happy to be healthy and competing again.
The indoor swing at the end of the year remains the one stretch of the season that Alcaraz, the youngest man to achieve the career grand slam, is yet to conquer. For once, he is fresh, and he hopes to finish the season strongly.
Jodar's statement performance
The evening session was defined by the performance of 19-year-old Rafael Jodar, who made his O2 Arena debut with a near flawless 6-2, 6-3 win over Bublik. Jodar's shotmaking off both wings and his ability to handle Bublik's serve drew shocked expressions from players on both benches.
Earlier, Casper Ruud won a tight match against Cerundolo 6-7 (4), 6-4, 10-8, while Brandon Nakashima defeated Mensik 6-1, 3-6, 10-7. Jannik Sinner announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Beijing Open on Friday, extending his injury layoff to three months.
