In the upcoming clash on Friday morning, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz is set to take on Lloyd Harris in the second round of the 2023 US Open. The match will take place around 4.30 am IST.
Alcaraz started his title defense against Dominik Koepfer. Early in the match, Koepfer faced an unfortunate ankle injury but continued despite the pain. Nevertheless, the Spaniard's strength proved overwhelming. Alcaraz secured two breaks of Koepfer's serve, allowing him to comfortably grasp the initial set.
As the second set progressed, with Alcaraz leading 3-2, Koepfer made the tough decision to retire due to his injury. Consequently, the World No. 1 advanced to the next round with a score of 6-2, 3-2, ret. The tennis betting sites have amazing odds for this game.
Meanwhile, Lloyd Harris clashed with Guido Pella in his opening round. The initial set saw both players unable to seize a break of serve, leading to a tie-break. Within this tie-break, the South African Harris managed to gain an advantageous position, clinching the set.
Following a similar pattern, the subsequent two sets unfolded. Harris secured early breaks at the outset of each set, managing to maintain his advantage throughout. This strategic play allowed him to wrap up the match with a score of 7-6 (5), 6-4, 6-4 in his favor.
Head to Head
As they prepare to face off, it's worth noting that this will mark the inaugural meeting between these two players. Therefore, their head-to-head record currently stands at 0-0. Tennis enthusiasts can anticipate an intense clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Lloyd Harris. But there is no doubt that Carlos Alcaraz will definitely be the favourite in this one.
Current Form
World No.1 Spaniard smoothly advanced to the second round following a victory over Dominik Koepfer, who retired during the match at a scoreline of 6-2, 3-2. Carlos Alcaraz boasts an impressive track record over the past six years (222-57), including a noteworthy 17-3 record on hard courts in 2023.
His performance on the same surface as this tournament has been equally commendable, with a composed 66-17 match record over the last six years on hard courts.
On the other hand, ranked at no. 177, South African player Lloyd Harris booked his place in the second round with a hard-fought victory against Guido Pella, sealing the match with a scoreline of 7-65, 6-4, 6-4.
In his first-round outing, Lloyd demonstrated his prowess with a commanding straight-set win. Throughout the match, Lloyd tallied an impressive 98 points. Harris unleashed 55 winners. Turning attention to his service games, Lloyd dominated his opponent with 26 aces.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Lloyd Harris Prediction
The upcoming clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Lloyd Harris promises to be a thrilling encounter. Considering Alcaraz's consistent performance and status as the defending champion, he surely is a clear favourite in this one. Harris, however, could capitalize on his aggressive approach to give Alcaraz a run for the money.
Tennis fans can look forward to a compelling match. However, we feel in the end Carlos Alcaraz will win the match in straight sets.
Betting Tips
Here are some useful US Open Betting tips for Carlos Alcaraz vs Lloyd Harris:
πΎCarlos Alcaraz to win in straight sets: 1.57
πΎTotal Games to be under 34.5: 1.50
πΎCarlos Alcaraz to win total games under 18.5: 2.48
