Alexander Blockx shares how far he is from Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner after reaching Madrid Open semi-finals

Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images

Blockx moves into the semi-finals in the Madrid Open

Alexander Blockx has announced himself to the tennis world at the 2026 edition of the Madrid Open.

The Belgian had a bit of a slow start to the tournament, but he’s now putting together some real momentum as he moves into the business end of things.

That win sent him through to a quarter-final clash with Ruud, who is now back outside of the top 10, although not by much.

The 27-year-old was certainly one of many threats remaining in this year’s draw, and Blockx just handled him quite easily.

Photo by Miguel Reis/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Blockx broke Ruud’s serve three times across two sets to secure a straight-sets victory

A ranking gap and more tour experience usually tip these kinds of matches in favour of someone like Ruud. Still, it was Blockx who looked sharper for most of their encounter.

There wasn’t much between them until later in each set when Blockx played some aggressive tennis. In both sets, he managed breaks late on and then served out both without any trouble.

I think I’m also better mentally – more consistent. Just like my baseline game and everything about my game. Like today as well, there were some ups and downs for sure with that crowd getting behind him and everything that happened.”

Alexander Blockx gives his take on Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

When asked about the possibility of him, Jodar and Joao Fonseca taking on Sinner and Alcaraz anytime soon, Blockx said: “We will definitely try.

“I think they are still a big level ahead of us. But, yeah, that’s why we play this sport, to be able to make a chance maybe to compete with them.