Carlos Alcaraz and Rafa Jódar lead a two-man Spanish contingent into the ATP Finals at the Inalpi Arena, chasing a tournament title that has eluded Spain since 1998, La Nueva España reported.
The season-ending championship runs through November 22 in Turin, featuring the top eight players on the circuit. Neither Rafael Nadal nor past champions like Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic are in the singles draw, clearing the path for new contenders.
Alcaraz arrives as the tournament favorite following victories at the Paris Masters and the Vienna ATP 500. Jódar reaches the season finale in his debut season on the professional circuit.
Alcaraz Draws Group Ivan Lendl
Alcaraz landed in the Ivan Lendl group alongside Daniil Medvedev, Flavio Cobolli, and Frances Tiafoe. He holds a 7-3 career record against Medvedev and opens his tournament schedule on Monday against Tiafoe.
The Murcian player reached the final last year before falling to Sinner. He enters this week holding a positive head-to-head record against all three of his group opponents.
“Sería un éxito increíble ganar aquí. Sinceramente, cada año pienso que es el año. Pero este vengo en mis mejores condiciones. Estoy fresco a nivel mental y con ganas de afrontar todas las dificultades que puedan ir surgiendo,” Alcaraz said.
Jódar Faces Top Seed in Debut
Jódar enters the Turin field as a tournament debutant and faces a difficult opening test against Alexander Zverev on Sunday. The Madrid native reached the tournament following a breakthrough first year on tour.
Zverev holds a negative record against top-five opponents this season despite securing titles at Roland Garros and the US Open. Jódar also shares a group with Arthur Fils and Ben Shelton.
“Estar aquí no era un objetivo porque es mi primer año en el circuito. No tengo ninguna presión. Es un honor y un privilegio jugar este torneo con los mejores del mundo,” Jódar said.
Spain Awaits Its First Title Since 1998
Spain has not won the season finale since Àlex Corretja claimed the trophy in 1998. Manuel Orantes remains the only other Spanish champion, having won the tournament in 1976.
Play begins Sunday afternoon with Zverev meeting Jódar, followed by Shelton against Fils in the evening session. Group play continues through the week ahead of the November 22 final.
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