Sinner Gains Momentum in Pursuit of World No 1 Spot as Alcaraz Faces Challenge

Carlos Alcaraz has acknowledged that his position as world No 1 is under threat, particularly with Jannik Sinner making a strong impression at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Sinner's impressive clay-court debut saw him win his 18th consecutive match and 36th successive set at Masters 1000 level, with a confident 6-3 6-0 victory over Ugo Humbert. Alcaraz, meanwhile, secured a 6-1 6-3 win against Sebastian Baez, equalling his longest clay-court winning streak. Despite his success, Alcaraz expressed surprise that Sinner chose to compete, given his recent 'Sunshine Double' win. The Spanish player is aware that Sinner has the potential to replace him as world No 1 and is focusing on his own performance rather than the rankings. Elsewhere, British No 1 Cameron Norrie suffered a second-round exit at the hands of Alex De Minaur.