Carlos Alcaraz is setting his sights on achieving his best-ever result at the ATP Finals in 2024, building on the success of his semi-final finish in the 2023 edition of the prestigious season-ending tournament. This year, the young Spanish tennis sensation arrives in Turin with high expectations and an impressive season already under his belt.
In 2023, Alcaraz made his debut at the ATP Finals after an unfortunate withdrawal in 2022 due to injury. His maiden appearance saw him navigate a challenging group stage, securing notable victories over Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev. However, his run was halted in the semi-finals by Novak Djokovic, who went on to demonstrate his dominance in the tournament. Despite the defeat, Alcaraz’s performance underscored his potential to contend with the best on the biggest stages.
Fast forward to 2024, and Alcaraz has once again qualified for the ATP Finals, thanks to another stellar season on the ATP Tour. The 21-year-old demonstrated his relentless drive and talent by capturing his third Grand Slam title earlier in the year, successfully defending his Wimbledon crown with a memorable win over Djokovic. The victory not only reinforced his status as one of the sport’s elite but also highlighted his ability to overcome one of tennis’ all-time greats in high-stakes matches.
Alcaraz’s success at the Majors didn’t stop there. In a display of versatility and clay-court prowess, he dominated Alexander Zverev to clinch his first French Open title. The triumph in Paris marked his fourth Grand Slam title overall, an extraordinary achievement for someone so young. Alcaraz’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric, and his impressive resume in 2024 also includes a Masters 1000 title and an Olympic silver medal, further cementing his status as a dominant force in men’s tennis.
As the ATP Finals loom, Alcaraz’s quest for glory in Turin carries significant weight. Winning the prestigious year-end championship would cap off an already remarkable season, elevating his career to new heights. The Spaniard is keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead, but he feels better prepared than ever before. Alcaraz’s physical struggles at the end of the 2023 season were well-documented, but he has worked diligently to ensure he arrives in Turin in optimal condition this time around.
Speaking to *Marca*, Alcaraz discussed the importance of being in peak physical and mental shape for this grueling tournament. “I already said last year that I wanted to be better in this part of the season, to play better tennis, to be better physically and above all mentally, to arrive fresher at this stage,” he revealed. “I’m not going to say that I’m completely fresh, but I’m fresher than last year. I’d say that I’m arriving at this tournament, which is the penultimate one, in pretty good shape. Little things are coming up, but they’re normal. I’m facing it motivated and wanting to play good tennis.”
Alcaraz’s confidence and improved fitness will be put to the test in Turin, where he faces a formidable group stage lineup. His group features world number two Alexander Zverev, Casper Ruud, and Andrey Rublev—each capable of challenging the young star. While the draw spared him a group-stage clash with two-time Major champion Jannik Sinner, Alcaraz remains unfazed by the competition. “It didn’t matter to me, it didn’t matter to me because in the end the eight best players in the world play here and to be the best you have to beat the best,” he remarked. “If not in the groups it will be in the semi-finals or the final, if I qualify.”
Despite his confidence, the road to the semi-finals won’t be a walk in the park. Alcaraz has a positive head-to-head record against just one of his group opponents in Turin, indicating the battles ahead will be fiercely contested. The physical and mental toll of playing multiple high-stakes matches in a condensed period could also pose a challenge, making his fitness all the more crucial.
As he prepares to kick off his ATP Finals campaign with a match against Casper Ruud on Monday, Alcaraz knows that every point will be hard-earned. His journey in Turin presents an opportunity to not only make amends for last year’s semi-final exit but also to further solidify his status as one of the game’s elite. For fans and pundits alike, watching Alcaraz compete at this level is a testament to his extraordinary talent and drive—a reminder that the future of tennis is in capable and exciting hands. With every powerful serve and thunderous forehand, Carlos Alcaraz is poised to leave an indelible mark on the ATP Finals and continue his ascent toward tennis greatness.