Britain’s Cameron Norrie fought again from a set right down to beat world quantity two Carlos Alcaraz 5-7 6-4 7-5 within the Rio Open remaining on Sunday, turning the tables on the 19-year-old Spaniard after shedding to him within the Buenos Aires decider every week in the past.
Norrie, who collected his first ATP title of 2023 and fifth total, appeared to be heading for a second straight defeat to the clay court docket match’s defending champion when he was damaged within the second set.
But with U.S. Open champion Alcaraz needing his proper leg wrapped halfway via the set Norrie seized the momentum and received 4 straight video games to degree the match.
After twice buying and selling breaks within the third set, Alcaraz saved two break factors in an epic ninth sport however Norrie transformed a break level alternative on the fourth try within the penultimate sport earlier than claiming the win on the ATP 500 occasion.
“I was looking done there and I managed to flick a switch and turn it around, so it was a good day,” Norrie, who misplaced to Richard Gasquet within the Auckland remaining final month, stated in remarks supplied by the ATP.
“I had to battle a lot of demons the last couple weeks, but I managed to just play well in the big moments and that’s what it took today.”
Alcaraz, who spent greater than three months on the sidelines as a result of belly and hamstring accidents, additionally wanted therapy for an higher left leg problem throughout his semi-final victory over qualifier Nicolas Jarry on Saturday.
“It was the end of two tough weeks of tennis and of course you’re not at your top (level) physically,” Alcaraz stated.
“I felt something in my leg and that didn’t really help me. Now it’s time to recover.”
Alcaraz stated the damage would have to be assessed however didn’t shut the door on competing in Mexico subsequent week.
“I really like Acapulco. I want to go there and play in front of the Mexican fans,” he stated.