Jannik Sinner Gains Ground on Carlos Alcaraz in World No 1 Race at Monte-Carlo Masters

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted his grip on the world number one spot is under threat from Jannik Sinner at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Sinner impressed on his return to European clay, winning his 18th consecutive match and 36th successive set at Masters 1000 level. The Italian, who recently completed the 'Sunshine Double' of Indian Wells and Miami Open without dropping a set, beat Ugo Humbert 6-3 6-0 in just 61 minutes. Alcaraz also made a strong start, beating Sebastian Baez 6-1 6-3 in 69 minutes for his 14th consecutive win on clay. However, the Spaniard is aware that Sinner has the chance to replace him as world number one next Monday. 'I'm going to lose the number one spot at some point,' Alcaraz said. 'I'm defending a lot of points that will be difficult to defend, and even if I do, Jannik will add some points.' Meanwhile, British number one Cameron Norrie suffered a second-round exit, losing to fifth seed Alex De Minaur 7-6 (7-5) 2-6 6-2.