Alcaraz blows past Dimitrov and into quarter-finals

Carlos Alcaraz mastered a tricky wind as he moved closer to an Indian Wells title hat-trick, crushing Grigor Dimitrov 6-1, 6-1 on Wednesday to reach the quarter-finals.

The 21-year-old Spaniard is flirting with another record after winning his 15th consecutive match at the desert venue where he owns the last two editions.

Only Novak Djokovic (19) and Roger Federer  (18) have longer winning stress here.

Alcaraz took revenge for loss in his last two meetings with likeable Bulgarian Dimitrov, an ATP crowd favourite at age 33 and holder of nine Tour titles.

The Spanish second seed set up a last-eight clash with Argentine Francisco Cerundolo, a 7-5, 6-3 winner against Australian Alex de Minaur;

Alcaraz advanced on his second match point, a forehand winner to the corner.

He ended with 20 winners while Dimitrov was saddled with 28 unforced errors in the rout.

“it’s difficult to play Grigor. He’s so talented and can do whatever he wants with the ball,” Alcaraz said.

Today was tough, with windy conditions. It was difficult for both of us. I did what I had to do to survive.

“I’m happy I was able to play long rallies and had good rhythm – I’m happy to go through.

The Spaniard added: “I’m proud my level didn’t drop after winning the first set,, sometimes I can let down a little bit.”

Alcaraz and upcoming opponent Cerundolo have never met on a hard court, with the Spaniard winning their lone Tour meeting in last June’s Queen’s first round.

Main photo:- Carlos Alcaraz chasing a third Indian Wells title – by ISF Ltd