Carlos Alcaraz becomes first Spaniard to win Miami Open after straight-sets win over Casper Ruud

Carlos Alcaraz cemented his burgeoning status as the rising star of men’s tennis by claiming a maiden ATP Masters 1000 title with victory over Casper Ruud at the Miami Open. The 14th seed triumphed 7-5 6-4 in one hour and 52 minutes to become the first Spanish man to win the tournament. Ad/> The win also sees the 18-year-old break Novak Djokovic’s record, set in 2007 at the age of 19 years and 10 months, as the youngest male champion in Miami Open history.

ATP MiamiAlcaraz wins three-set epic to reach maiden Miami semi-finals01/04/2022 AT 07:49 Alcaraz will now rise to a career-high No. 11 in the world and has rapidly emerged as a major threat for the sport's biggest titles heading into the clay swing. Ruud, who was competing in his 10th ATP Tour final, will move to seventh in the rankings.

Reflecting on his victory, Alcaraz said: «It’s too soon to describe my feelings right now. I have no words. It’s so special to win my first Masters 1000 (title) here in Miami.

»I knew that Casper was playing very well and he has big forehand. I tried to attack and play to his backhand first and try not let him dominate the match. My forehand down the line and backhand down line were key for me.” Medvedev doubtful for the French Open after surgery 'She has charisma' — Henin hopes Swiatek will thrive as No.1 Dominant Swiatek sweeps aside Osaka to win Miami title It was a first ever Masters 1000 final for both players, so nerves were to be expected, and it was the teenager who showed the most obvious signs early on.