Jessica Pegula stunned by Carlos Alcaraz’s surprising US Open return

The 2026 US Open has seen a significant development with the return of defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. According to reports from ESPN and US Open Tennis, Alcaraz has returned to the tournament and is healthy again, successfully winning his comeback match. The return of the champion has generated considerable attention, with the New York Post specifically highlighting that Jessica Pegula was stunned by Alcaraz's surprising appearance and return to competition during this event. Coverage of the tournament's early stages is being led by multiple major outlets.

The New York Times has provided live updates confirming that Alcaraz has advanced in the tournament, alongside other players such as Sabalenka and Anisimova. Meanwhile, USA Today has focused on the broader logistics of the event, publishing the results from Day 2 and the schedule for Day 3, while also providing information on where viewers can watch the 2026 tournament as it unfolds. This development is particularly noteworthy because Alcaraz enters the tournament as the defending champion, making his health status and ability to compete a primary point of interest for the sports community. The fact that his return was described as surprising by the New York Post suggests a period of uncertainty regarding his availability or fitness prior to the start of the matches.

His immediate victory in the comeback match establishes his current form as he seeks to maintain his title. Looking ahead, the tournament continues with a crowded schedule of high-profile athletes. According to The New York Times, the event will move forward with matches involving Shelton and Osaka. Observers will be watching to see how Alcaraz progresses through the subsequent rounds following his initial win and whether other top seeds maintain their momentum through the Day 3 schedule outlined by USA Today.