It is World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz who comes out on top in an entertaining clash with World No. 47 Gael Monfils at the 2024 Miami Masters. With Monfils famous for his showmanship, the Spaniard gave him a taste of his own medicine at the Hard Rock Stadium. The Frenchman was seen admitting Alcaraz’s dominance mid-game.
Alcaraz won the match 6-2, 6-4 in one hour and 14 minutes to keep his ‘Sunshine Double‘ dream alive. As the Spaniard raced to win the first set in 32 minutes, the match looked set for an early wrap. But the Frenchman made a late attempt to stage a comeback. But all he could do was delay Alcaraz‘s win.
The 2022 champ was clinical and ensured he got the win in straight-sets. He has now dropped a set only twice in his last eight wins. So far in Miami, he is yet to lose a set. As the reigning Wimbledon champ took control of the match, Monfils was shocked by his court coverage and burst out laughing at one point.
As Monfils was returning to get his towel, he indulged in a small conversation with his coaching team. As the discussion was caught on camera, it was all fun for Monfils who claimed he’s just not able to pass him.
I need to go for really big. I cannot pass him--He's crazy. said Monfils with a smile.
His coach was also quick to acknowledge this fact. He responded with an answer that left Monfils with a small chuckle as he returned to the baseline.
He is everywhere. said Monfils’ coach.
Known foe awaits Carlos Alcaraz in the fourth round
After the convincing win over Monfils, Alcaraz now moves into the fourth round. He will now take on Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti who broke American hearts in the third round. Musetti was up against southpaw Ben Shelton and went on to defeat him 6-4, 7-6(5).
While Alcaraz has already won the Miami title, Musetti will make his fourth-round debut at the tournament. Currently, Alcaraz leads their head-to-head 2-1. The only win for Musetti came in the finals of the 2022 Hamburg Open, one of the only three finals Alcaraz has lost so far.
Alcaraz has since then won the next two matches, that too in straight sets. As he looks to join the exclusive club of players to complete Sunshine Double in the same season, he will be laser-focused on knocking out the Italian to advance.
As for Musetti, he is playing in the first tournament since he became a father. His motivation is different from what Alcaraz has. But that just promises a blockbuster action-packed match in the fourth round.
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