Like a steam engine rumbling down the tracks, Carlos Alcaraz has been coming for the world’s top tennis prizes for some time now.

With his unique combination of power, precision and speed, it has appeared virtually inevitable that Alcaraz would contend for Grand Slam titles and the No. 1 world ranking for the last couple of years. In March, at 18, he won his first Masters 1000 title in Miami, beating Casper Ruud in straight sets on hardcourts. In May, he beat Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev on his way to a second Masters 1000 title in Madrid.

And on Sunday, Alcaraz authored the latest chapter in his exploding career, winning his first Grand Slam title at the U.S. Open with his third straight victory over Ruud — 6-4, 2-6, 7-6(1), 6-3, capping it off with a 125-mph service winner before collapsing on his back on the court — and becoming the youngest No. 1 player in ATP history. Lleyton Hewitt, at 20 years, 9 months, was the previous youngest No. 1.

Read more at: 19-Year-Old Carlos Alcaraz Wins U.S. Open To Become Youngest No. 1 In ATP History (forbes.com)

Categories: Tennis