Carlos Alcaraz is battling more than just an opponent ahead of Sunday's highly-anticipated ATP Finals title clash against Jannik Sinner. World no. 1 is battling the clock!
The Spaniard has embraced his finest run in Turin, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime in the second semi-final on Saturday night to remain on the title course. On the other hand, Sinner returned to his accommodations hours earlier.
The Italian kicked off his semi-final match against Alex de Minaur at 14:30 and had enough time to enjoy a relaxed Saturday night. Unlike him, Carlos needed every precious minute to recover for Sunday's 18:00 final.
Alcaraz was thrown into a race against time following his rock-solid 6-2, 6-4 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime, despite not spending too much time on the court.
The six-time Major winner focused on preserving energy. He skipped his late-night press conference and instead made a quick stop in the mixed zone to answer a few questions.
Thus, he sacrificed media time for recovery time ahead of one of the most important matches of the season. Carlos enjoyed a quick dinner at the tournament site before leaving the InalpiArena for his Principe di Piemonte hotel.
His team accompanied him, and their work continued late into the night. Alcaraz's physio, Juanjo Moreno, who "saved" him in Tokyo a couple of weeks ago, began an extended treatment session that stretched until two in the morning.
The goal was to loosen fatigued muscles and squeeze every bit of freshness into his player before the much-anticipated showdown. Carlos and his team returned to the ultimate battleground on Sunday.
World no. 1 met his rival Sinner on the practice court, with the world's best players exchanging a warm greeting, showing no tension but only admiration. Their teams did the same, reminding that this rivalry is built on respect.
Carlos and Jannik will battle in their sixth notable final since May. The stage is set for another epic chapter in their fast-growing rivalry that overshadows the rest of the Tour.
