Alcaraz victorious on US Open return; Sabalenka also wins her opening match

Carlos Alcaraz returned to the U.S.

Open and looked healthy enough for a run at a repeat.

Alcaraz beat Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 on Monday, showing no problems with the right wrist injury that had sidelined the 23-year-old Spaniard since April.

Following fellow two-time U.S.

Open champion Aryna Sabalenka onto Arthur Ashe Stadium, the No.

2-seeded Alcaraz appeared more comfortable as the match went on and delivered the all-around game that has made him a fan favorite in New York.

He held his hand to his ear to encourage louder cheers and pumped his fist after a pretty volley winner in the final game of the match.

"I'm just really happy that I was able to compete again," Alcaraz said.

"I think the level of tennis is going to be better for sure.

I'm just really happy with the level that I played my first match." If the seven-time Grand Slam champion stays healthy, he may quickly become a huge favorite with top-ranked Jannik Sinner sidelined by a knee injury and No.

4 Novak Djokovi