Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the ATP Finals has reshaped the end-of-season lineup. The legend's exit propelled Lorenzo Musetti into the main draw alongside Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Thus, Alexander Bublik stands as the first alternate, and the 2022 finalist Casper Ruud decided to immediately board a flight andland in Turin as the second alternate. His chances of competing are very slim, but he could not miss a chance to spend more time with the rivals from the top.
Novak defeated Lorenzo in the ATP 250 Athens final after three hours. He then decided to withdraw from Turin, feeling intense shoulder pain and wrapping up his season.
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Thus, the legend paved the way for a reshuffle among the reserves. Auger-Aliassime watched the Athens final closely, although he would have entered the draw even if Musetti defeated Djokovic.
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Now, Bublik and Ruud will sit and wait for an opportunity to compete at the premium event. They can replace an injured player who withdraws before the final match of the group.
Casper has always enjoyed the ATP Finals, having scored three victories in his three trips to the elite tournament. After reaching the semi-final on his debut in 2021, the Norwegian stepped in and reached the final a year later.
Ruud reached the semi-final over Taylor Fritz and Felix Auger-Aliassime despite a tight defeat to Rafael Nadal. He defeated Andrey Rublev and booked the title clash against Novak Djokovic.
The Serb provided a 7-5, 6-3 triumph, leaving his rival settling with the runner-up spot. Casper returned to the ATP Finals in 2024 and embraced another strong run.
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He bested Carlos Alcaraz and Andrey Rublev for his third semi-final from as many trips to the year-end event. He faced Jannik Sinner and suffered a heavy loss, taking three games and hitting the exit door after 69 minutes.
Casper got another chance to feel the unique atmosphere again, training alongside the best and preparing to seize any late-minute opportunity.
