Madrid Open 2023: Spain counts down to Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek finals - 'Air of anticipation'

Carlos Alcaraz was treated to more adulation in his homeland as the 20-year-old made it a birthday to remember by moving to within one win of retaining his Madrid title. The World No.2 will meet a major underdog in Sunday's final, but that's not the case in the WTA draw as the top two seeds lock horns in a battle that could be an early chapter in a burgeoning high-profile rivalry. Ad Paul Hassall was at the Caja Magica to witness the action and look ahead to Iga Swiatek v Aryna Sabalenka: Part Eight.

ATP MadridExclusive: Borg backs Alcaraz to be No. 1 for 'many years', hopes for Nadal French Open comeback3 HOURS AGO More shocks in the men’s draw? Not when Carlos Alcaraz is involved. Ever wondered what it’s like to turn 20 and have the world at your feet? Just ask Alcaraz.

The young Spaniard is one win away from retaining his Madrid crown having capped his birthday with a hard-fought success over Borna Coric, which was fittingly his 20th straight win on Spanish clay courts. Nadal's French Open hopes suffer fresh blow following Rome Masters withdrawal Exclusive: Borg backs Alcaraz to be No. 1 for 'many years', hopes for Nadal French Open comeback Alcaraz battles past Coric to reach Madrid Open final His Croatian opponent has a reputation for raising his level when faced with the elite stars on the tour (with a 3-5 record v Top-2 players) and has broken Spanish hearts in the past.