Carlos ALCARAZ ends Jannik SINNER's impressive streak and will fight to defend his title at Indian Wells
ATPSunday, 17 March 2024 at 02:51
Carlos
Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner faced off for the eighth time in their careers, with
a 4-3 advantage for the current world No. 3. The dream match, the match of the
present and future of tennis in the semifinals of Indian Wells, much like in
2023, where the Spaniard prevailed over the Italian 7-6(4), 6-3 before going on
to claim the title.
And he did
it again, this time in 3 sets, by 1-6, 6-3, and 6-2, becoming the first player
to defeat Sinner this season and staying alive in his title defense at Tennis
Paradise.
After just
3 games, like yesterday's second women's semifinal between Coco Gauff and Maria
Sakkari, the match was halted due to rain. They were in the locker rooms for a
few minutes and returned to warm up, but after finishing the warm-up, it
started raining again, and they had to wait for over 2 and a half hours before
returning to the court.
Upon their
return, Carlitos had a very poor service game, allowing Sinner to break his
serve and lead 3-1. Although Alcaraz had the opportunity to immediately recover
the break, he didn't capitalize on it. From there, everything became uphill for
the Spaniard and downhill for the Italian, who ended up taking the first set
with an imposing 6-1.
In the
second set, Alcaraz came out determined to turn the tide, and he showed it by
breaking Sinner's serve in the second service game of the Italian. Despite
being tested, the Murcian showcased mental strength and never relented. He
ended up taking the second set 6-3, largely thanks to regaining his best level
with his forehand.
It was the
first set Sinner lost at this Indian Wells and only the third player to win a
set against him this season, after Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open and
Gael Monfils in Rotterdam.
In the
beginning of the third set, Alcaraz started off strong, and he proved it when
he broke Sinner's serve to go up 2-1 and serve, in a game where the Italian
seemed to show signs of physical discomfort and hurt his wrist after falling
while trying to save a ball.
Read also
It turned
out to be a turnaround in the match, as Sinner only won one more game in the
entire match, with Carlitos Alcaraz taking the third set 6-2 against a much
more error-prone Jannik than usual, largely thanks to the attitude and usual
aggression of the world No. 2, which he maintains thanks to his victory when he
enjoys himself on a tennis court.
In the
final, he will face Daniil Medvedev, in a rematch of last year's final, or
Tommy Paul, a player who has always made it difficult for him and with whom he
has a 2-2 head-to-head record.
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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