Can Alcaraz surpass Djokovic in the ATP Rankings before the US Open?
ATPFriday, 09 August 2024 at 19:30
Novak
Djokovic withdraws from the Cincinnati Open, opening a possibility for Carlos
Alcaraz to surpass him in the ATP Rankings before the US Open. The two players
faced off on Sunday in the Olympic Games final, with Djokovic finally capturing
the elusive gold medal in his career.
After
securing gold in Paris 2024, Nole decided to skip the Cincinnati Masters, where
he was the defending champion, meaning he will lose 1,000 points in the
Rankings. However, Alcaraz was the runner-up in 2023, so he needs to win the
title to surpass Djokovic.
Alcaraz eyes Djokovic’s no. 2 spot
On Sunday,
Alcaraz and Djokovic played an exciting final at Paris 2024 on the courts of
Roland Garros. The 37-year-old Serb won 7-6, 7-6, securing the Olympic gold.
Djokovic now leads the head-to-head with Alcaraz 4-3 (2-2 in finals).
After
completing the Career Golden Slam, Djokovic announced that he would take a
break from the courts. While both Alcaraz and Djokovic withdrew from the
Canadian Open this week, the Spaniard will compete in Cincinnati starting
Monday, while Djokovic announced his withdrawal from the tournament.
Last year,
Alcaraz and Djokovic played one of the best matches of the season in the
Cincinnati final, where Djokovic claimed the title in one of the best matches
of the year, 5-7, 7-6(7), 7-6(4). With the Serb's confirmed absence, he will
lose 1,000 points before the US Open. This means Djokovic's points will drop to
7,460, with no opportunity to add new points before the fourth Grand Slam of
the year.
Read also
On the
other hand, the 21-year-old Spanish player will lose 600 points for last year’s
final, leaving him with 7,350 points—just a 110-point difference from Nole. To
surpass Djokovic before the US Open, Alcaraz must reach the quarterfinals in
Cincinnati, which would return him to World No. 2, just behind Jannik Sinner.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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