Carlos Alcaraz delivers magic at ATP Masters - but opponent fights back

Early drama at the Hamburg Open

Carlos Alcaraz once again underlined his exceptional class at the Hamburg Open on Tuesday, but his second-round opponent Filip Krajinovic showed great fighting spirit to take the match into a deciding set in overcast conditions.

The top-seeded Spaniard, who is the youngest player in the world's top 10 at 19, needed just 20 minutes to win the opening set 6-1 on the outdoor red clay.

The world No. 6 was in complete control, dictating the rallies with his powerful groundstrokes and using his trademark drop shots to perfection.

Krajinovic shows resilience

However, 30-year-old Krajinovic, a former world No. 26, showed great resilience to hit back and level the match by winning the second set 7-6 (7-4) after saving two set points.

The Serbian broke Alcaraz's serve in the 10th game of the second set and then held his nerve in the tie-break.

Momentum shifts again

The momentum shifted back in Alcaraz's favor in the third set, as he broke Krajinovic's serve in the second game and then held his own serve to love.

The Spaniard served out the set 6-4 to take a 2-1 lead in the match, and he will now serve for the match in the fourth set.

Praise for Krajinovic

Despite the setback, Krajinovic can take heart from his performance against Alcaraz, who is one of the hottest properties in tennis.

The Serbian showed that he can compete with the very best on his day, and he will be hoping to upset Alcaraz in the fourth set.