Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz exudes eagerness as he units his sights on the upcoming Rome Masters, desirous to debut on the occasion and reclaim his place because the world’s top-ranked participant, presently held by the indomitable Novak Djokovic.
After retaining his title in Madrid on Sunday by beating fortunate loser Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4 3-6 6-3, Alcaraz solely has to point out up and play in Rome to leapfrog Djokovic.
Rankings are primarily based on factors claimed at every event, which expire yearly. To keep the factors gained at an occasion, a participant should no less than match the tally from the earlier yr.
Alcaraz skipped the Rome Masters final yr because of an ankle damage, so he has no factors to defend, whereas Djokovic gained in Rome final yr and thus can not enhance his general factors complete.
With solely 5 factors set to divide the 2 gamers within the following rankings, Alcaraz will transfer above the Serbian into the highest spot even when he loses on the first hurdle in Rome.
After an injury-plagued begin to the season, Alcaraz stated he’s 100% and pondering huge, motivated to maintain bettering his recreation as he builds up for the French Open, which begins on May 28.
“I am an ambitious guy, and I’m going full for the win in Rome,” Alcaraz instructed a news convention on Sunday.
“What I’m attaining is one thing huge. I simply gained my tenth title, fourth Masters 1000, and back-to-back titles right here in Madrid, and near reclaiming the No. 1 world spot.
“It’s a special moment, and I’m proud of my accomplishments. The work I’m putting in.”
The Spaniard, who turned 20 on Friday, has loved a spectacular begin to his profession by successful the U.S. Open final September to develop into the youngest man to prime the rankings.
On Sunday, he needed to play his finest to beat a relentless Struff and clinch his fourth season title, including to triumphs in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells and Barcelona.
“I know I can play well in the important moments,” Alcaraz stated. “I’m a participant who grows below strain on the massive stage, and I love to do various things in these moments. To adapt to what my opponents deliver to me.
“I am a finals’ player: I played 13 finals and won 10.”
He has joined Rafael Nadal as the one back-to-back Madrid champion and is the youngest to retain an ATP Masters 1000 title since his fellow Spaniard at Monte-Carlo and Rome in 2005-06.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
