Teen Alcaraz Tops Schwartzman In Rio For Biggest Career Title

Carlos Alcaraz continued his quick ascent up the ATP ladder claiming his second and biggest career title to date by taking Rio over clay stud Diego Schwartzman 6-4, 6-2.

Just 18, Alcaraz is the youngest to win a 500 event since the level was established in 2009.

“I can’t believe it, honestly. It has been a great week for me playing a great level,” Alcaraz told the crowd. “First tournament on clay since a long time, so I’m really happy with the performance during the whole week. It’s an amazing feeling right now.”

Alcaraz made his ATP level debut in Rio two years at the age of 16, and now he’s the tournament champion following wins over Matteo Berrettini, Fabio Fognini and now Schwartzman.

“I think this is my game. It’s a lot of variety. It’s the key I won the match,” Alcaraz said. “I know how Diego plays and this was really important for me.”

Schwartzman loses in back-to-back weeks on this clay swing.

“I think the South American clay season gives me a lot of confidence, points and rhythm,” Schwartzman said. “After Australia, I went back home not feeling very well. Physically I finished not in the best way in the first tournaments of the year. But then I made the semifinals and two finals in South America, losing against I think the best opponents every tournament.”

Following the win, Alcaraz withdrew from Acapuclo.

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