ATP Finals 2024: Carlos Alcaraz Faces Elimination After Loss to Zverev

Carlos Alcaraz, a two-time Grand Slam champion in 2024, finds himself on the brink of an early exit from the ATP Finals after a straight-sets loss to Alexander Zverev in his final group-stage match on Friday in Turin. Despite his stellar season, Alcaraz’s chances of reaching the semi-finals of the season-ending tournament now depend on external results.

Alexander Zverev, showing excellent form, defeated Alcaraz 7-6(5), 6-4 in an intense battle that lasted one hour and 47 minutes. The victory not only secured Zverev the top spot in the John Newcombe Group but also confirmed his place in the semi-finals. This win, especially significant as it marks Zverev’s first triumph over Alcaraz after two losses earlier in the year, including a heart-wrenching defeat in the Roland Garros final, is a testament to Zverev’s determination and growth.

Zverev’s resurgence late in the season has been impressive, with the German winning seven consecutive matches to make a strong case for the ATP Finals title. In the semi-finals, Zverev is set to face Taylor Fritz, who has also been in formidable form.

Currently second in the John Newcombe Group standings with one win and two losses, Alcaraz’s hopes of advancing hang in the balance, resting on a specific outcome in the match between Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud. If Rublev defeats Ruud in straight sets, Alcaraz will qualify for the semi-finals due to a superior sets-won record, despite being tied in match wins with Rublev and Ruud. The tension is palpable as the fate of Alcaraz’s journey in the ATP Finals is yet to be decided.

Throughout the tournament, Alcaraz has been dealing with a respiratory issue, which saw him wearing nasal strips during his matches in Turin. This health challenge, combined with Zverev’s relentless performance, made it a particularly tough battle for the Spaniard to find his rhythm on the court. The audience can’t help but empathize with Alcaraz’s struggle.

Zverev’s win over Alcaraz cements his status as a serious contender for the ATP Finals crown. Having regained his form late in the season, the German is brimming with confidence as he prepares for his semi-final clash with Fritz. With his sights set on the title, Zverev’s late-season momentum makes him one of the players to watch in the tournament’s closing stages.

All eyes now turn to the Rublev vs. Ruud match, as the result will determine whether Alcaraz’s journey in the ATP Finals continues or comes to an abrupt end. The high-stakes clash holds the key to the Spaniard’s fate, as only a straight-sets victory for Rublev can keep his semi-final hopes alive. Meanwhile, Zverev’s dominant display in Turin underscores his resurgence and highlights his potential to cap off the 2024 season with a remarkable victory at the ATP Finals. With his confidence soaring and momentum firmly on his side, the German is poised to make a serious bid for the prestigious title.

HAPPY I GOT THIS ONE: ZVEREV

“He (Alcaraz) beat me too many times this year in important matches, so I’m happy that I got this one,” Zverev said.

“Obviously I feel like we have a pretty good rivalry with a great friendship as well, so it’s always nice to play against him… Just sharing the court with him. He’s a great guy and I’m looking forward to the next matches with him as well.

“It’s been three fantastic matches. I’m happy with being 3-0 in the group for sure, but I think now the semi-final is going to be very difficult. (Taylor) beat me the past few times at the slams, so I’m looking forward to that match.”

World No. 1 Janniik Sinner made it to the semi-finals after dominating the other group, winning all his three matches. 

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