Carlos Alcaraz took a major step toward reclaiming the world No.1 ranking after outlasting Taylor Fritz in a tense three-set battle at the ATP Finals 2025 in Turin. The Spaniard rallied from a set down to clinch a 6-7(2), 7-5, 6-3 win, maintaining his push to end the year at the top of the ATP rankings.
The five-time Grand Slam champion, leading the Jimmy Connors Group with two victories, showed remarkable composure and creativity after narrowly losing the opener in a tiebreak.
“I’m really happy that I was able to come back and find my good tennis,” Alcaraz said post-match. “I just tried to make the most of the opportunities that he gave me. I think we played great tennis, some great points.”
Alcaraz Still in Contention for Year-End No.1
The 22-year-old would have guaranteed a semi-final berth had Alex de Minaur beaten Lorenzo Musetti later that evening. However, Musetti thrilled the Italian supporters with a 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 victory, leaving the group standings finely balanced before the final matches.
Alcaraz, who surrendered the top ranking to Jannik Sinner after the Paris Masters, now needs a win against Musetti on Thursday to reclaim the year-end World No.1 spot.
“I will try not to think about it,” Alcaraz admitted. “It’s going to be a really big match.”
Resilient Alcaraz Turns the Match Around
The win stretched Alcaraz’s dominant head-to-head record over Fritz to 5-1, with the American’s sole victory coming at the Laver Cup earlier this year. Fritz, last season’s ATP Finals runner-up, came out firing with his serve and took the opening set after a 70-minute battle.
But Alcaraz dug deep in the second, saving two break points during a marathon 21-minute service game before grabbing a crucial late break to force a decider. In the final set, his energy and shot-making were on full display as he broke in the sixth game and sealed victory when Fritz sent a backhand wide.
What Lies Ahead in Turin
The result means Carlos Alcaraz remains just one win away from closing 2025 as the World No.1 for the second time in his career. Meanwhile, Fritz will take on De Minaur in his last group match, hoping to stay alive in the tournament as the battle for the semi-finals heats up in Turin.
Stay Updated for all the latest Sports News, follow Todaysmatchprediction on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
