Martin Landaluce, the 2022 US Open Junior champion, secured the most important victory of his career at the Miami Masters. The 20-year-old defeated Sebastian Korda in the round of 32. Korda had previously eliminated Carlos Alcaraz.
Overcoming a Match Point
The Spaniard won with scores of 2-6, 7-6 (6), and 6-4. Landaluce neutralised a match point with a winning return in the second set tiebreak. He also overcame a comeback attempt from his opponent, who recovered from 0-3 to 3-3 in the third set after receiving treatment for back issues.
“I needed a great shot and I hit a winner. It’s a great feeling to save it like that,” Landaluce said, regarding saving the match point. He added, “All Spaniards have that fighting spirit. Ferrero, Ferrer, Nadal, Carlitos… I’ve been watching them throughout my career and now I’m here. So I had to try.”
Landaluce’s Rise
Landaluce, who is nearly within the top 100, has been working consistently. He successfully navigated the qualifying phase in Miami, unlike his experiences at the Australian Open and the Indian Wells Masters 1000. Standing at 1.93m, he dictates play with a good serve and power from both sides.
Comparisons to Top Players
One observer noted similarities between Landaluce and players like Del Potro, Safin, and Rublev, while acknowledging the differences. It was noted that, like any young player, Landaluce still needs to define his identity, adapting and learning what works best for him.
- 2022 US Open Junior Champion
- Victory over Sebastian Korda at Miami Masters
- Neutralised a match point in the second set
Alongside Carlos Alcaraz’s dominance, there has been some concern in Spanish tennis about the lack of players who can compete at the highest level. While Alcaraz filled the void left by Rafael Nadal’s retirement, there has been a perceived lack of young players breaking through, despite showing promise at junior level.
Of the last five US Open junior champions, three are Spanish: Dani Rincon (2021), Martin Landaluce (2022), and Rafael Jodar (2024). The transition has not always been easy, including for Martin Landaluce, who has been patient and persistent in seeking his place.
Landaluce’s victory in Miami demonstrates the qualities that distinguish top-class tennis players.