MASON, OHIO - AUGUST 16: Carlos Alcaraz of Spain congratulates Gael Monfils of France after their match during Day 6 of the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center on August 16, 2024 in Mason, Ohio. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Carlos Alcaraz continued his winning streak at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, earning his 12th consecutive victory by defeating veteran Gael Monfils 6-4, 7-5 to reach the quarter-finals. Alcaraz, who is now 51-9 this season, became the first Spaniard to reach the Shanghai Masters last eight since 2017, following a hard-fought battle marked by powerful groundstrokes and strategic net play.
Despite a strong challenge from Monfils, who had beaten Alcaraz in Cincinnati earlier this year, the 21-year-old Spaniard held his nerve, particularly in crucial moments. Alcaraz saved a key break point in the first set and secured the decisive break in the second set’s 11th game. He won 88% of points at the net, demonstrating his clinical efficiency.
Alcaraz’s victory sets up a quarter-final clash against Tomas Machac, who defeated Tommy Paul in three sets. If Alcaraz wins, he could face a rematch with Jannik Sinner, his recent China Open final opponent, in the semi-finals. Sinner advanced after defeating Ben Shelton 6-4, 7-6(1). Alcaraz remains confident as he eyes another showdown with Sinner, leading their head-to-head 6-4.
