Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals—Milan, Italy
Spanish upstart Carlos Alcaraz won his biggest title to date on Saturday in Milan, Italy, dispatching No. 2 seed Sebastian Korda 4-3(5), 4-2, 4-2.
In a match featuring two of the brightest youngsters on the ATP Tour, it was Alcaraz who displayed his world-class forehand in front of the supportive crowd.
Reaching the quarterfinals of the US Open earlier this year, Alcaraz will end 2021 ranked No. 32.
Korda, who holds a very eclectic game, ends this year ranked at No. 41.
*****
Stockholm Open—Stockholm, Sweden
American Tommy Paul captured his maiden career ATP Tour title on Saturday in Stockholm, Sweden, defeating defending champion and No. 3 seed Denis Shapovalov 6-4, 2-6, 6-4.
In a match that featured two shot makers, Paul started off strong before his Canadian opponent roared back in set two. With everything to play for in set three, Paul gained an important break of serve in the ninth game and never looked back.
Ranked No. 43 in the world, Paul hit one ace and won 72 percent of his first serve points. Winning their only career meeting to date, Paul also broke the serve of his opponent on two occasions.
Dismissing Andy Murray and Frances Tiafoe en-route to the finals, Paul will be a player to watch for during the 2022 season.
Shapovalov, who was aiming for his second career title, fell to 1-4 in Tour finals.
*****
Akron WTA Finals Guadalajara—GUADALAJARA, MEXICO
Round-round results:
Paula Badosa Defeats Maria Sakkari 76(4) 64
