Carlos Alcaraz Shines in ATP Finals Opener with Straight-Set Win Over Alex de Minaur

TURIN: Spain’s tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz began his ATP Finals campaign in spectacular fashion on Sunday, defeating Alex de Minaur in straight sets to keep his dream of finishing the season as world No. 1 alive.

The 22-year-old star overcame a shaky start to claim a 7-6(5), 6-2 victory over the Australian in the prestigious year-end tournament featuring the top eight players in men’s tennis.

Alcaraz Overcomes Early Struggles

Alcaraz appeared dominant early in the first set, breaking De Minaur to love and threatening to go up 5-1. However, the Australian fought back with grit and precision, saving multiple break points and forcing a tiebreak.

Despite trailing 5-3 in the breaker, Alcaraz’s resilience and aggressive play turned the tide. The Spaniard produced stunning baseline winners and displayed his trademark mental toughness to claim the opening set 7-6(5).

A Commanding Second Set

The second set began with a brief hiccup as Alcaraz dropped his serve early. But from that point on, he took complete control. Mixing powerful forehands with sharp backhands, he dismantled De Minaur’s rhythm and won six of the last seven games.

He sealed the match with a cross-court backhand winner on his second match point, earning his first-ever ATP Finals opening victory.

Alcaraz: “This Is the Best Tournament on Tour”

Speaking after the match, Alcaraz praised the level of competition and the atmosphere at the season finale.

“This tournament is the best we have on tour, without a doubt. We play against the best players in the world, which shows how challenging and important this event is,” said Alcaraz.

The victory not only boosted his confidence but also strengthened his position in the race for the year-end No. 1 ranking, which remains within his grasp.

Zverev Triumphs in a Thriller Against Shelton

In the other opening match of the day, Alexander Zverev defeated ATP Finals debutant Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6(6). The two-time champion displayed his experience and composure, saving three set points in the second-set tiebreak.

The match featured a thrilling 93-point second set, with Zverev fending off a late comeback from Shelton to secure a straight-sets win and a perfect start to his group campaign.

The Race for World No. 1 Intensifies

Alcaraz is battling defending champion Jannik Sinner for the coveted year-end world No. 1 title. The Spaniard can clinch the top spot regardless of Sinner’s results if he reaches the final in Turin.

This latest win marks an important step toward that goal, showcasing Alcaraz’s hunger to reclaim dominance after a mixed season of highs and injuries.

Group Breakdown: Jimmy Connors and Bjorn Borg Pools

Alcaraz headlines the Jimmy Connors group, which also includes Taylor Fritz, Alex de Minaur, and Lorenzo Musetti, who replaced the injured Novak Djokovic.

The Bjorn Borg group features Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton, and Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The top two players from each group will advance to the semifinals, scheduled for November 16 in Turin.

Record Prize Money at ATP Finals 2025

This year’s ATP Finals boasts a record prize pool of $15.5 million, making it one of the most lucrative tournaments in tennis history. The winner can earn more than $4.8 million if they remain undefeated throughout the event.

Conclusion

Carlos Alcaraz’s dominant start at the ATP Finals proves that he remains one of the brightest stars in the sport. His determination, energy, and ability to fight back under pressure are clear indicators of his championship mindset.

With a place in the semifinals within reach and the No. 1 ranking on the line, the stage is set for a thrilling week in Turin. Tennis fans around the world are watching closely as Alcaraz aims to finish 2025 at the very top of men’s tennis.