NEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz’s comeback at the U.S. Open began with a bang, and he’s making it clear he’s here to win.

In just 35 minutes, the 20-year-old Spaniard was down 4-1 in the first set against seasoned rival Frances Tiafoe, a semifinalist at last year’s tournament. Alcaraz’s body language betrayed no panic, though. He calmly adjusted his tactics, attacking the net more frequently and showcasing the aggressive play that earned him the No. 1 seed.

By the time the match concluded, Alcaraz had turned the tide, triumphing 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 to secure his spot in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Asked about his ability to stay composed, Alcaraz said: “I’ve learned over the years that patience is key. Tennis is all about adapting, especially when things don’t start the way you planned.”

The win was significant for Alcaraz, who missed much of the 2024 season due to a wrist injury. While his return earlier this year had been promising, with a title in Barcelona and a final appearance at Wimbledon, questions lingered about his ability to perform under the intense spotlight of a Grand Slam.

Tiafoe, ranked 10th in the world, praised Alcaraz after the match. “He’s relentless. You think you’ve got him on the ropes, and he finds a way out,” Tiafoe said.

Alcaraz will next face Jannik Sinner, a familiar foe and a rising star in his own right. The two have faced off five times, with Alcaraz holding a 3-2 edge. Their last encounter was a five-set thriller in the 2023 Australian Open, and fans are already buzzing about what could be another epic showdown.

In other matches Tuesday, Jessica Pegula, the No. 3 seed, cruised past Italy’s Martina Trevisan, 6-2, 6-4, setting up a quarterfinal clash with defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. Pegula has never advanced beyond the quarterfinals in New York and admitted she’s eager to break that streak.

“It’s about time,” Pegula said with a laugh. “I feel like my game is coming together perfectly at the right moment.”

Sabalenka, meanwhile, extended her unbeaten streak to 15 matches, overcoming a slow start to defeat Canada’s Leylah Fernandez 4-6, 6-3, 6-1.

On the men’s side, Novak Djokovic eased past Lorenzo Musetti, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4, in a match that highlighted the Serb’s mastery of the sport. Djokovic, now 36, is aiming to win his 25th Grand Slam title and cement his status as the greatest of all time.

As the tournament enters its second week, the stage is set for drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments, with young stars and seasoned veterans battling it out for glory under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.