World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz only wanted to return home following his Paris Masters setback against Cameron Norrie in the second round. The 22-year-old took a brief break from the tennis grind to recharge before the final challenges of the season in Italy.
The six-time Major champion spent Thursday night attending Murcia's Copa del Rey clash against Antequera, swapping racket for a night of football among locals.
The home side prevailed after a dramatic penalty shootout, giving Carlos and the local supporters plenty to celebrate. The Spaniard appeared relaxed and in good spirits, taking time to greet fans and enjoy the atmosphere.
Alcaraz embraced nine straight ATP finals between Monte Carlos and Tokyo. He left everyone behind in the ATP Race and looked good to embrace his second year-end no. 1 honor at 22.
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However, Jannik Sinner has won three titles in a row, chasing the fourth at this week's Paris Masters and hoping to reduce the gap to his greatest rival ahead of the ultimate battlefield - the ATP Finals in Turin.
Carlos has taken a couple of days off the court. However, he will soon start his preparations for the premium ATP event, seeking his first ATP Finals trophy and the ninth of the season.
The young gun is trying to recover physically and mentally ahead of his final indoor pushes. He does not enjoy these conditions, which he confirmed in Paris, but the desire is there to bring his A-game and fight for the titles.
Alcaraz wished for another deep run in Paris, his least successful tournament. He claimed the opener against Cameron Norrie before experiencing a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat.
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The favorite did not enjoy his strokes, even in the opening set. He sprayed over 50 unforced errors and lost the pivotal points to hit the exit door and keep Sinner in the year-end no. 1 contention.
