Netflix Slam Showdown: Carlos ALCARAZ claims victory against Rafael NADAL in entertaining exhibition in Las Vegas

ATP
Sunday, 03 March 2024 at 23:57
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A celebration unfolded at the Netflix Slam with the exhibition match between Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. The event kicked off with a presentation in true Las Vegas style, complete with dazzling lights and a packed stadium. The world No. 2 claimed victory against the 22-times Grand Slam champion with a scoreline of 3-6, 6-4, 14-12.
From the outset, Nadal came out playing more aggressively than Alcaraz, and both displayed a competitive level. The first break came in the second game, where Nadal capitalized on 'Carlitos' struggling with his first serve, taking the lead to 3-0.
As is customary, Alcaraz sought winners from the baseline but showed changes throughout the set. He attempted several drop shots and refrained from going for the lines too much while feeling more comfortable on the court.
Nadal was unstoppable in the first set from the service line and demonstrated his experience in rallies to maintain the lead, eventually securing the set 6-3. It was noteworthy that during breaks, excerpts from interviews with the players were shown, and they even answered questions from the interviewer live.
The second set started with the young star taking an early break and building a 4-1 lead, similar to what 'Rafa' achieved in the first set. Nadal saved several break points in the sixth game to stay alive. The 37-year-old veteran recovered the deficit just when 'Carlitos' could have taken the set, but it wasn't enough as Alcaraz broke back, sending the match into the super tie-break to determine the outcome.
Before the super tie-break, there was an incident with a fan that paused the match for a few minutes, causing concern for both players. Upon their return to the court, parity remained during the initial part of the tie-break. After several mini-breaks on both sides, Nadal gained an advantage, capitalizing on Alcaraz's second serve, leading 7-5.
However, Alcaraz responded with four consecutive points and had two match points, both of which Nadal incredibly saved. 'Carlitos' had three more wasted match points before finally prevailing on his sixth opportunity, securing the victory 3-6, 6-4, 14-12.

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