This match was crucial for Carlos Alcaraz and Andrey Rublev after their opening-day losses, and Alcaraz responded with a resilient and focused performance. Displaying the intense play that has characterized his rise in the sport, the young Spaniard took a crucial step forward and remained in contention to advance in Turin.
Alcaraz entered the match under a bit of pressure, seeded third and facing high expectations to perform. A respiratory setback on Monday had forced him to pause his usual practice routine, but the need for a win over Rublev — an opponent he previously defeated in last year’s tournament — was clear. Across the net, Rublev’s powerful game presented a real challenge, but Alcaraz took advantage of his recent experience with the Russian to prepare for a physical and tactical battle.
