In a stunning display of comeback, Carlos Alcaraz dominated Francisco Cerúndolo at the Monte Carlo Masters by 3-6, 6-0, 6-1. Currently ranked three, Carlos had a rough start, but the Spaniard rallied to win, demonstrating the resilience and talent that have swiftly elevated him to one of the ATP Tour's most interesting players. After breaking Cerúndolo early, the 21-year-old faltered, allowing the Argentine to take the lead.
The second set was a turning point in the match. Although Alcaraz faced an early break point, he managed to hold serve, easing initial concerns which ignited his momentum. In the very next game, the Spaniard broke Cerúndolo’s serve and surged ahead to a dominant 4-0 lead, showcasing his signature drop shots.
Carlos Alcaraz's dazzling shots stunned Francisco Cerúndolo
Alcaraz had plenty of reasons to be nervous, particularly given the slow conditions and overcast skies over Monaco. Alcaraz began hurriedly and erratically, overhitting numerous shots out of bounds. The player's impressive shots undermined Cerúndolo's confidence and prevented him from making any breaks. After narrowly surviving the first few games, the Spaniard found his rhythm and never looked back.
As the game reached its final set, Alcaraz was overwhelmed. He broke Cerúndolo twice, completing an impressive seven-game streak. Cerúndolo was unable to match the Spaniard's effort and shot making, ultimately losing the match with a last break at love.
The 21-year-old who was beaten in the 2022 Monte Carlo season felt his start wasn't that great. "I didn't start well. I made a lot of mistakes. After the first set, I knew I had to do something else, play more aggressively, play my tennis."
The five Masters 1000 title winner finished 2024 with 12 victories from 13 singles matches on clay, having won Roland Garros and finished second in the Olympics at the same match venue the previous year.
