MIAMI, FL – In a stunning upset at the Miami Open, world number one Carlos Alcaraz was eliminated in the third round by American Sebastian Korda, 6-3, 5-7, 6-4. The loss marks the second consecutive year Alcaraz has suffered an early exit at the tournament, and it significantly boosts Jannik Sinner’s chances of ascending to the top of the ATP rankings.
Alcaraz, who lost to David Goffin in his Miami debut last year, appeared frustrated at times during the match, even voicing his concerns to his box. “I don’t know what to do, I can’t do anything else,” he was overheard saying, according to reports. Despite a spirited comeback in the second set, forcing a deciding third, Alcaraz couldn’t maintain the momentum against a determined Korda.
Korda, currently ranked 42nd in the world, showcased impressive form throughout the match, capitalizing on key breaks and maintaining composure under pressure. He secured the decisive break in the third set at 4-3, then confidently served out the match to claim a notable victory. “It’s a fantastic feeling, even if I took the scenic route to get there,” Korda joked after the match. “A little more stress than I wanted, but I’m happy with how I played and how I stayed focused. I just kept believing.”
The result has major implications for the ATP rankings race, particularly for Jannik Sinner. Sinner, who triumphed at Indian Wells, has already gained 1,000 points. A potential title run in Miami would see him close the gap on Alcaraz to 1,150 points. Alcaraz, meanwhile, faces a challenging points defense schedule in the coming weeks, with points to defend at Monte Carlo (100), Barcelona (330), Rome (1000), and Paris (2000).
Sinner will face Corentin Moutet of France in his next match, a contest he’ll enter with renewed confidence. The Italian’s strong start to the clay court season, coupled with Alcaraz’s early exit in Miami, positions him favorably in the battle for the world No. 1 ranking.
This loss for Alcaraz raises questions about his performance in Miami. Is it a mental block, a tactical mismatch, or simply a case of Korda playing above his ranking? Whatever the reason, the American’s victory has shaken up the tournament and injected new life into Sinner’s pursuit of the top spot.
The Miami Open continues with Sinner’s match against Moutet as a key focus for fans tracking the race to the top of men’s tennis. The tournament promises further drama as players vie for ranking points and championship glory.
Fans can follow live updates and results from the Miami Open on the official ATP Tour website and through major sports broadcasters.
