Sinner Closes in on Alcaraz in Bid for Top Ranking at Monte-Carlo Masters

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted that his position as world number one is under threat as Jannik Sinner makes a strong start to the Monte-Carlo Masters. Sinner, who recently achieved the 'Sunshine Double', impressed with a confident 6-3 6-0 win over Ugo Humbert, extending his winning streak to 18 matches and 36 consecutive sets at Masters 1000 level. Alcaraz, meanwhile, secured a 6-1 6-3 opening-round win against Sebastian Baez, marking his 14th consecutive win on clay. However, with Sinner in pursuit of his first Masters 1000 crown on clay, Alcaraz acknowledges that he may lose his top ranking. 'I'm going to lose the number one spot,' Alcaraz said. 'I don't know if it is going to be at this tournament or another one.' Sinner's speed and agility on the court, which would have likely impressed Olympic sprint star Usain Bolt, who was in attendance, have put pressure on Alcaraz to defend his position. The Italian player expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, 'It was a good performance from my side.' Elsewhere in the tournament, British No 1 Cameron Norrie suffered a second-round exit following a three-set defeat to fifth seed Alex De Minaur. The Australian won 7-6 (7-5) 2-6 6-2, ending Norrie's campaign in the Monte-Carlo Masters.