World number one Carlos Alcaraz began his Indian Wells campaign with a decisive victory. He was cheered on by friend and NBA star Jimmy Butler, who attended the match despite a season-ending ACL tear.
Alcaraz secured a 6-2, 6-3 second-round win. "He's my guy. I am just really happy that, with everything he's been through with the knee, that he can show up and watch my match," Alcaraz stated post-match.
Butler, a six-time NBA All-Star, expressed admiration for Alcaraz's competitive spirit. "I love the ferocity he plays with. He's not scared of any moment," Butler commented.
Alcaraz is off to a strong 13-0 start to the season. His next opponent will be Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech.