Jannik Sinner Gains Ground on Carlos Alcaraz in World No 1 Pursuit as Norrie Exits Monte-Carlo Masters

Carlos Alcaraz has admitted his grip on the world No 1 spot is under threat from Jannik Sinner at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Sinner made a strong return to European clay with an impressive win, extending his consecutive match and set wins at Masters 1000 level. Having recently achieved the 'Sunshine Double' without dropping a set, Sinner carried his momentum onto clay 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 win streak on clay. However, Alcaraz is aware that Sinner has the chance to replace him as world No 1 next Monday. Sinner said it was a good performance and he had to adjust his game style for clay. Alcaraz expressed surprise that Sinner decided to play, given his recent busy schedule, but acknowledged the Italian's ability to adapt to different surfaces. British No 1 Cameron Norrie suffered a second-round exit after a three-set defeat to Alex De Minaur. Norrie won five games in a row to force a decider but was ultimately broken twice at the start of the final set, leading to his exit.