The tie began with Roberto Bautista Agut securing Spain’s first point, defeating Jiri Lehecka 6-2, 6-3 in singles. This set the stage for Alcaraz to clinch the win, but Czechia’s Tomas Machac had to retire in the third set, handing Spain the crucial second point.
Machac’s injury was particularly unfortunate as it came after he won a first-set tiebreak against Alcaraz. The World No. 3 struggled early in his first Davis Cup appearance since 2022, committing 21 unforced errors in the opening set.
Despite his shaky start, Alcaraz produced a remarkable moment while on serve at 2-1 in the second set. In what was one of the most spectacular points of the season, he defended valiantly from the baseline, chased down a short ball, and executed a full-stretch backhand volley to win the point. The Valencia crowd erupted in celebration, but it was a different scene on the other side of the net as Machac clutched his leg, signaling trouble.
Alcaraz capitalized on the situation, winning the next four games to force a deciding set. However, Machac was unable to continue and retired in the opening game of the third set, with the score at 6-7(3), 6-1. It was a disappointing end to what could have been a gripping match.
With the win already in hand for Spain, there were thoughts that Alcaraz might rest. Instead, he teamed up with Marcel Granollers in doubles, much to the delight of the home fans.
The doubles match was anything but easy. However, Alcaraz delivered a stunning lob in the third-set tiebreak to secure a comeback victory over Jakub Mensik and Adam Pavlásek, 6-7(2), 6-3, 7-6(2), sealing a 3-0 overall result for Spain.
These matches were Alcaraz’s first since his unexpected second-round exit at the US Open. Reflecting on his recent experiences, he said, “I tried to take the positive things about my losses in the United States. It has been really tough to find, but I found it.”
He continued, “I’m trying not to repeat the mistakes regarding my level and mental approach. I aim to be more mature, to improve little by little. I’m here with a lot of energy and motivation to help Team Spain and be the best No. 1 possible, winning as many matches as I can as a team.”
