By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Monday, October 30, 2024
Carlos Alcaraz is chasing Novak Djokovic for the world No. 1 rating.
In Paris, the pair got here face-to-face in a Wimbledon last rematch.
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Djokovic topped Alcaraz in a apply set they performed in preparation for this week’s Rolex Paris Masters. Alcaraz hopes apply is a prelude to a Sunday last rematch.
“I believe it was one of the best ways, , to prepare for this match, , apply with the very best one,” Alcaraz advised the media in Paris. “We spoke earlier than coming right here to Paris and we, yeah, we discuss if we are able to apply at some point.
“It occur yesterday. He received. Hopefully only for apply.”
Dealing with the very best, Alcaraz concedes he isn’t fairly bodily at his greatest. The Wimbledon winner continues restoration from plantar fascia in his left foot and a strained decrease again muscle that compelled him out of final week’s Swiss Indoors Basel.
One of many sport’s speediest gamers admits he is feeling foot ache, however believes he can nonetheless take vital steps in Paris. Alcaraz opens the Rolex Paris Masters in opposition to qualifier Roman Safiullin.
“I am not gonna say that I am 100% as a result of it may very well be a lie,” Alcaraz mentioned. “You recognize, presently of the 12 months, , after a protracted 12 months, I believe virtually each participant has somewhat little bit of issues of their our bodies, .
“I am feeling in that manner. I am feeling somewhat little bit of ache, , however I had a very good restoration these weeks. I am coming right here feeling properly sufficient, , to do a very good outcome right here.”
Regardless of his cranky left foot and a well-rested Djokovic who beat him in apply, Alcaraz mentioned “I do not know if [Novak] has extra probabilities or me.”
The 2022 US Open champion cited Vienna champion Jannik Sinner and finalist Daniil Medvedev as two prime contenders in Paris.
“Jannik, for instance, is taking part in unbelievable. Medvedev as properly,” Alcaraz mentioned. “There are lots of nice gamers which can be taking part in in excessive stage, , so I believe that the draw is absolutely, actually open, and lots of gamers can win this match.”
Picture credit score: Rolex Paris Masters Fb