Carlos Alcaraz made a winning start at the ATP Finals in Turin. World no. 2 ousted Alex de Minaur 7-6, 6-2 in an hour and 40 minutes for a notable win and 200 ATP points on his tally.
The Spaniard's group took a dramatic twist before the tournament began. Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti battled in the ATP 250 final in Athens on Saturday. The Serb prevailed and kicked the Italian out of the competition.
However, the veteran withdrew from Turin and allowed Musetti to step in and replace him. Thus, Carloswill avoid the Novak Djokovic round-robin clash and face Lorenzo instead.
For the Spaniard, the change was more than welcome. Facing the seven-time winner Djokovic at the ATP Finals would meant confronting the most decorated player in tournament's history and one of the finest indoor competitors the sport has ever seen.
Musetti's inclusion, though fully deserved after his late push to qualify, providesa different dynamic. Carlos admitted he is glad to see Lorenzo's name instead of Novak's.
Thus, the six-time Major winner acknowledged the advantage of avoiding the 38-year-old legend in the round-robin stage where he seeks all three wins. If he achieves that, Alcaraz will wrap up the year-end no. 1 battle with Jannik Sinner.
Still, the 22-year-old is not underestimating his new opponent. He recognized Musetti's confidence and the home support, calling him another dangerous opponent at the event without easy matches.
With his first win safely in his pocket, Carlos now turns focus on Musetti and Taylor Fritz, the remaining challengers in the round-robin stage.
"I'm not going to lie, I prefer Lorenzo over Novak in the group. It's always difficult to face Novak at the ATP Finals due to his experience and incredible indoor game. Lorenzo is in Turin because he deserves it.
We will see how he adapts because he is coming from playing in Athens and has not had a chance to get a feel for the court here," Carlos Alcaraz said.
