Alcaraz tops Rublev for maiden ATP Finals win

Carlos Alcaraz clinched his first ever victory at the ATP Finals as he overcame Russian Andrey Rublev 7-5, 6-2 on Wednesday.

The first of many 👏@carlosalcaraz #NittoATPFinals pic.twitter.com/PxFKpwQMyh

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) November 15, 2023

It was a much needed success as the Wimbledon champion succumbed to a surprise defeat against Alexander Zverev on Wednesday and today’s win keeps his chances for a 1/2 final alive.

PERFECT 🔟@carlosalcaraz earns a personal-best 10th Top 10 win of the season and his first victory in the Red Group! #NittoATPFinals pic.twitter.com/fLlc6LuI8e

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— ATP Tour (@atptour) November 15, 2023

Meanwhile, it was a bitter experience for Rublev, showcased by his angry smack of his racket, which made his nose bleed, as he had lost all mathematical hope for next round qualification.

The world number two held his nerve in the first set and broke out at a key moment for 6-5, before closing it out with precision for 7-5.

The young Spaniard then established full dominance on the court, breaking out early in the second set, which seems to have gotten under Rublev skin, who started to lose control of his emotions.

Alcaraz easily salvaged the second set with 12 points in a row towards the end to send the frustrating Rublev packing.