Alcaraz Digs Deep to Reach French Open Third Round

Subtle Injury Hinders Star

Despite the discomfort, Alcaraz prevails

An off-colour Carlos Alcaraz had to dig deep to beat inspired qualifier Jesper de Jong and reach the French Open third round.

The Spanish teenager, who was beaten by Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the French Open last year, was below his best on Court Philippe Chatrier but still managed to win 6-1, 6-4, 6-4.

Alcaraz looked uncomfortable throughout the match, grimacing and holding his right forearm. He had a medical timeout at the end of the second set, but it did not seem to help much.

Despite the discomfort, Alcaraz battled on and eventually wore down his opponent. De Jong, who is a big hitter, had his chances but Alcaraz's superior court coverage and relentless intensity proved too much.

The victory sets up a third-round clash with fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas, who is ranked 44th in the world.

It remains to be seen whether Alcaraz's forearm injury will continue to bother him. If it does, it could derail his hopes of winning his first Grand Slam title.