In a thrilling day of tennis at the ATP Finals in Turin, the semifinal lineup took shape as Alexander Zverev and Casper Ruud punched their tickets. But the tournament also bid an unexpected early farewell to top seed Carlos Alcaraz.
Zverev Surges Past Alcaraz
The highly-anticipated clash between Zverev and Alcaraz lived up to its billing. In a tight first set, both players held serve until the tiebreak, where Zverev’s experience shone through. The German seized the opening set 7-6 (5) with clutch play at crucial moments.
Alcaraz, who has been battling illness this week, showed flashes of his brilliant best in the second set. But Zverev maintained his composure, breaking the Spaniard’s serve at 4-4 before serving out the match for a 7-6 (5), 6-4 victory.
He turns into a different person. He really plays his best at the most important moments.
Alexander Zverev on Carlos Alcaraz
Ruud Rallies Past Rublev
In the other decisive match, Casper Ruud overcame a spirited challenge from Andrey Rublev. The Norwegian took the first set 6-4 with a single break of serve. But Rublev fought back in the second, winning it 7-5 to force a decider.
Ruud, however, found another gear in the third set. He broke Rublev twice en route to a 6-2 win, sealing his place in the semifinals. The victory also saw Ruud finish second in the group behind Zverev.
Alcaraz’s Bittersweet Farewell
For Carlos Alcaraz, the tournament ended in disappointment despite moments of magic. The world No. 1, who has enjoyed a breakthrough year, could not find his best form consistently while battling a cold.
Still, Alcaraz gave fans a glimpse of his immense talent, especially in the riveting final game against Zverev. Though he came up short, the 19-year-old remained upbeat about the future.
My goal [is] to be at the end [of tournaments] all the time, every tournament that I’m going to play at least reach the semifinal, final. In 2025, I hope to be a better player and [have] more consistency.
Carlos Alcaraz
Semifinal Showdowns
Saturday’s semifinals promise more high-stakes drama. Zverev will take on American Taylor Fritz, while Ruud faces Italian Jannik Sinner. With a spot in the final on the line, expect the intensity to reach fever pitch.
- Zverev vs Fritz: A clash of big serves and powerful groundstrokes
- Sinner vs Ruud: A battle of the young guns with contrasting styles
Beyond the ATP Finals, both Zverev and Ruud have their sights set on even bigger goals in 2025. Zverev, now up to No. 2 in the rankings, is targeting a maiden Grand Slam title and the No. 1 spot. Ruud, meanwhile, will look to build on a season that saw him reach two major finals.
Davis Cup Looms for Alcaraz
For Alcaraz, attention now turns to the Davis Cup Finals next week. The Spaniard is determined to help his country lift the trophy in what will be Rafael Nadal’s swan song.
I really want him to retire with a title. It’s going to be really, really emotional and a really special tournament for me.
Carlos Alcaraz on Rafael Nadal’s last Davis Cup
As the tennis season reaches its climax, the ATP Finals have delivered the perfect blend of shock and suspense. With Nadal’s impending retirement adding to the sense of occasion, the next week promises to be one for the ages. Buckle up.
