Alcaraz on Brink of History: One Win Away from Securing World No. 1 Spot
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Carlos Alcaraz is one victory shy of claiming the year-end World No. 1 ranking for the second time in his career. The 22-year-old Spaniard overcame Taylor Fritz in a thrilling 6-7 (2), 7-5, 6-3 win at the ATP Finals on Tuesday, putting him on the cusp of a historic achievement. Alcaraz can secure the top spot by defeating Lorenzo Musetti in his final group-stage match or by winning his semifinal encounter. The young tennis sensation, who has already won once in the tournament, expressed his focus on the present moment despite the prospect of becoming World No. 1. "It's really difficult not to think about the No. 1 spot," Alcaraz said, "but I'm trying to focus on my game and enjoying this moment." He praised his resilience, which proved decisive in a high-quality contest that lasted over two and a half hours. Alcaraz fired 47 winners to Fritz's 38, raising his level in the closing stages to complete the comeback. Fritz, however, fell short of his goal, ruing missed opportunities that might have changed the outcome. The American's knee tendinitis flared up during the match, affecting his serve and movement. With the win, Alcaraz secured a spot in the semifinals and improved to 2-0 in the Jimmy Connors group. In other ATP Finals news, Lorenzo Musetti edged Alex de Minaur 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, while Jannik Sinner kept his hopes alive for back-to-back year-end titles by winning his opener against Felix Auger-Aliassime. Alcaraz's path to the year-end No. 1 spot is still uncertain, but he is one victory away from making history.
