At eighteen years old, Carlos Alcaraz has already won two singles titles on the ATP Tour. He turned professional approximately four years ago in 2018. There is a lot of expectations placed on his young shoulders. Thankfully, he appears to be embracing and responding positively.

Stefanos Tsitsipas Found That Out The Hard Way

The never quit attitude, and the willingness to embrace a little pain and discomfort, are quite reminiscent of his idol, Rafael Nadal. Looking like the first set was out of his reach, Alcaraz reeled off a slew of brilliant shots. If it was not a screaming backhand winner down the line, he was attacking at the net. Then we saw the variety of shots in his arsenal with well executed lobs that got him back in the point frequently. In some cases, the lob won him the point.

Embed from Getty Images

Carlos Alcaraz May Be In Tsitsipas’ Head

At a career high currently, the Spaniard will continue to climb, and the sky is the limit as far as this young talent is concerned. He has Juan Carlos Ferro as his coach, who seems to be doing an excellent job with his young protégé. No lead is guaranteed when Alcaraz is playing. At the US Open last year, their first encounter, the Greek player found that out, much to his dismay. He led two sets to none and ended up losing the match in five sets. Surely that stung.

History Repeating Itself Last Night

Tsitsipas had what looked like a commanding lead before the wheels came off. In part because the Spaniard played with controlled aggression that was extremely precise. The Greek player was clearly frustrated and could not for the second time, solve the riddle of his opponent. This time, Alcaraz did not allow him to take a set lead, he broke and then broke again to claim the first set 7-5, after Tsitsipas served for the set at 5-3.

Embed from Getty Images

Tennis Is A Game Of Inches

When those inches go against you, it is a bitter pill to swallow. Alcaraz did not relinquish his lead after winning the first set. He won 7-5, 6-3. How will the Greek player bounce back from this loss? Only time will tell. For now, we will continue to follow the young Spanish bull to see how much damage he can do in Miami.

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES