Carlos Alcaraz is one win away from creating Miami Open history after defeating defending champion Hubert Hurkacz in straight sets. He will face Norway’s Casper Ruud in his first ATP Masters final.
The 18-year-old Spaniard won 7-6 (5) 7-6 (2) in just over two hours. The game did not see a break of serve, Alcaraz held his nerve in the two tie-breaks to put himself one win away from being the youngest player to win the event in its 37-year history.
Only two men have won titles at this level at a younger age — Michael Chang (1990, Toronto) and Rafael Nadal (2005, Monte Carlo) were both 18 on their first triumphs.
TEENAGE DREAM 🌟@alcarazcarlos03 snaps Hurkacz’ 10-match winning streak in Miami 7-6(5) 7-6(2) to reach his maiden Masters 1000 final!#MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/pHzLuoHwh0
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 2, 2022
After the match, Alcaraz expressed his emotions on playing the final to atptour.com. He said, “Something that you dream of when you are a child. I have a lot of emotions right now. It’s really good to be in the final here in Miami. I love playing here. The crowd is amazing.”
“I’m going to approach the final like a first round, trying to mask the nerves. I’m going to enjoy it, it’s going to be a great final.”
Carlos Alcaraz on his way to create history
Teenage Spanish tennis sensation, Carlos Alcaraz will become Miami Open’s youngest ever champion if he beats Norway’s Casper Ruud.
Alcaraz trailed 5-3 in the first set tie-break but won four straight points. He then saved two break points at 5-5 in the second set before dominating the tie-break.
Congrats @alcarazcarlos03. It was very good tennis. Time for doubles 🎾 @MiamiOpen #MiamiOpen2022 pic.twitter.com/AyGmP5ztDV
— Hubert Hurkacz (@HubertHurkacz) April 2, 2022
Hubert Hurkacz was full of praise for his teenage opponent at the press conference. He said, “He’s playing insane for his age. It’s really incredible how he plays, how he competes. He has an amazing career in front of him. It’s crazy how good he plays.”
The Spaniard also appreciated his opponent’s game. He said, “He has played well here and was the defending champion but I played a really good game from my side.”
“This will be my first big final on a hard court but I have confidence and I am going to enjoy it.”
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