World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is ready to chase his first Paris Masters crown. The Spaniard arrived tothe French capital on Friday and hit the practice court alongside Karen Khachanov.
Alcaraz has yet to provide his A-game at the indoor Masters 1000 event, entering the draw in the previous four years and earning only five victories. The 22-year-old still seeks his first semi-final in Paris, and it should come this year if he maintains his thrilling form.
The six-time Major champion has been the player to beat since April, reaching nine consecutive ATP finals and lifting seven trophies for his career-best season on the Tour.
Carlos lost the Wimbledon final to Jannik Sinner before conquering Cincinnati, the US Open and the ATP 500 event in Tokyo. The Spaniard is in the driving seat to wrap up the season as the year-end no. 1 for the second time.
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Last week, world no. 1 competed at the Six Kings Slam and faced Jannik Sinner in the title clash. The Italian dominated and scored a 6-2, 6-4 victory in 73 minutes to defend the trophy.
Alcaraz will try to bounce back in Paris, leading the draw ahead of his greatest rival. They are trying to embrace their sixth straight ATP Finals since May, all at notable events.
Carlos debuted Jannik on his Paris Masters debut in 2021 before losing in the next round. He retired against Holger Rune in the 2022 quarter-final before experiencing a setback against Roman Safiullin 12 months later.
Alcaraz faced Ugo Humbert last year and suffered a 6-1, 3-6, 7-5 defeat for another early exit. They stayed neck and neck in the decider before the home player provided a late break to send the favorite packing.
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The Spaniard will try to embrace a deep run next week and become the first player of the season with 70 ATP wins.
