Alcaraz Edges Fritz in Turin Thriller, Musetti Delights Home Crowd at ATP Finals
TURIN, ITALY – Carlos Alcaraz battled past Taylor fritz in a captivating match at the ATP Finals on Tuesday, while Lorenzo Musetti energized the Turin crowd with a spirited performance.Alcaraz, the sixth seed, secured a hard-fought victory over the 2024 runner-up, demonstrating his resilience and ability to elevate his game when it mattered most.
The opening four games of the match lasted nearly 30 minutes, showcasing an intense exchange of breaks as both players held firm on serve. Fritz, who previously defeated Alcaraz in their most recent indoor encounter at the Laver Cup in September, capitalized on his momentum to claim the first set 7-6 after a grueling 70 minutes, converting a tie-break possibility.
Alcaraz responded in the second set,holding serve after a captivating game featuring eight deuces and saving two break points,acknowledging the crowd’s support. Despite Fritz maintaining pressure and holding for 4-4, a crucial double fault opened the door for Alcaraz, who seized the opportunity to break and ultimately take the set.
The decisive moment arrived as Alcaraz broke for a 4-2 lead in the third,punctuated by a spectacular overhead backhand drop shot that set up a match point. He then served out the match to love, showcasing his dominant form.
“It was tight.I felt I was struggling more than him,” Alcaraz saeid after the match. ”I was really relieved after the win because of everything I went through physically. I’m really happy that I found a way to come back and find his weaknesses.”
Fritz finished the match with an impressive 75% first serve percentage, but Alcaraz proved too strong when Fritz’s level dipped. Meanwhile, Musetti thrilled the home crowd with a dynamic display, adding to the excitement of the ongoing ATP Finals in Turin.
