Sinner, Alcaraz dominate Monte Carlo
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Jannik Sinner defeated Ugo Humbert 6‑3, 6‑0 in 64 minutes, conceding just six points in the second set, marking his 18th straight Masters 1000 win and 36 consecutive sets at that level.
- Carlos Alcaraz beat Sebastian Baez 6‑1, 6‑3 in 70 minutes, opening his clay‑court season as defending Monte Carlo champion.
- Alcaraz said he could lose the world number‑one ranking at this tournament or the next, emphasizing he is focused on playing his best rather than the ranking.
- Sinner has no ranking points to defend until the Italian Open because of a three‑month suspension for doping violations last year, giving him a points advantage if he reaches the later rounds.
- Sinner faces a 1,190‑point gap to Alcaraz, and a Monte Carlo title would flip the world‑number‑one spot when rankings update Monday.
- Sinner will meet Argentine Francisco Cerundolo in the next round, while Alcaraz will face either Tomas Martin Etcheverry or Frenchman Terence Atmane.
Why it matters: Sinner’s win narrows the 1,190‑point gap and, with no points to defend, positions him to overtake Alcaraz for the top ranking if he advances deep, while Alcaraz risks losing his lead and must defend points amid a strong challenger in the upcoming weeks.
Ask SkimNews
