'That is insane' - Carlos Alcaraz wins point against Jannik Sinner at US Open after amazing behind-the-back shot
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Updated 08/09/2022 at 09:38 GMT
Carlos Alcaraz played a superb match to beat Jannik Sinner and make the semi-finals of the US Open. The Spaniard fought back from a break down in the fourth and fifth sets and also saved a match point as he advanced. Both players came up with some fantastic shots, including a behind-the-back effort from Alcaraz which might go down as the best shot of the Grand Slam.
Alcaraz v Sinner - US Open highlights
Did Carlos Alcaraz hit the shot of the US Open during his thrilling late-night win over Jannik Sinner?
The third seed prevailed in five sets in the latest-ever US Open finish at 2.50am local time to reach his first Grand Slam semi-final.
The match featured a number of incredible rallies and some spectacular shot-making, none better than a wondrous behind-the-back effort from Alcaraz in the second set.
The Spaniard looked to be beaten as he ran across the court in anticipation of a shot out wide only for Sinner to hit the ball down the middle.
But Alcaraz somehow, from behind the baseline, flicked the racquet behind his back and not only returned the ball but gave Sinner a tough low volley at the net.
The Italian got the ball back into play but Alcaraz raced up to it and swatted away the backhand for a cross-court winner.
As the crowd on Arthur Ashe roared in delight, Alcaraz had a huge smile on his face as he looked towards his grinning coach Juan Carlos Ferrero.
“Unreal! What just happened?” said a stunned Paul Hand on commentary for Eurosport.
“Carlos Alcaraz with a behind-the-back shot that was as good as most people’s regular shot. Many are on their feet in disbelief.
“Sinner was owning the point, you better check Alcaraz’s back pocket because this was stolen. That is insane and the follow up even better.
“Get out of town. Ridiculous tennis from a very confident 19-year-old.”
Although Alcaraz would lose the second and third sets, he recovered from a break down in the fourth and saved a match point to force a decider.
He then again rallied from behind in the fifth set to win one of the most incredible matches at this year’s US Open.
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