TURIN, Italy — The stage is set for an exciting showdown at the ATP Finals, where top-seeded Carlos Alcaraz has been placed in a challenging group alongside tennis legend Novak Djokovic. Meanwhile, defending champion Jannik Sinner will compete against Alexander Zverev in another highly anticipated group match-up.
Alcaraz, Djokovic, Taylor Fritz, and Alex de Minaur form what is known as the Jimmy Connors group, which promises to deliver thrilling matches. In the Bjorn Borg group, Sinner is joined by Zverev, Ben Shelton, and either Felix Auger-Aliassime or Lorenzo Musetti, who is vying for a spot in the finals this week in Athens. Currently, Auger-Aliassime holds the eighth and final qualifying position; however, a tournament victory by Musetti could see him advance.
As the ATP Finals approaches, the status of Djokovic remains uncertain. The seven-time champion, who did not participate last year, is evaluating his health and will make a decision regarding his involvement after competing in Athens.
Commencing on Sunday, the finals will feature a round-robin format where the top two players from each group will advance to the semifinals, culminating in the final match set for November 16. Alcaraz is entering the event for the third time, having reached the semifinals in 2023 as his best performance. Both Alcaraz and Sinner are in a tight race for the coveted year-end No. 1 ranking, which hinges on their results at these finals.
Zverev, boasting ATP Finals victories in 2018 and 2021, alongside Fritz, who faced Sinner in last year’s final, exemplifies the high level of competition in this year’s tournament. De Minaur returns for his second consecutive appearance, while Shelton celebrates his debut at this prestigious event.
This year’s tournament promises not only intense competition but also a showcase of emerging talent, with players like Shelton highlighting the next generation of tennis stars.