Overview

• Arriving with a shaved head, Alcaraz told Rory McIlroy he "had to start fresh" after a haircut he "struggled with."
• McIlroy praised the new look after feeling the stubble, while friend Frances Tiafoe called it "horrible" and "terrible."
• Alcaraz began his singles campaign on Arthur Ashe Stadium against big-serving American Reilly Opelka in the first round.
• During match play, an ugly fall was reported, with no immediate sign it was a tournament-altering injury as the situation was monitored.
• The five-time major winner arrived as a leading contender following a dominant stretch since April, including the Cincinnati title and a live battle with Jannik Sinner for the top ranking.