The legend of Carlos Alcaraz grew again on Friday, saving match points and winning just when you think he is out. He was not the better player for much of the match against Fritz, but turned everything around by breaking at 4-5 in the second set with the American serving for the match. From that moment on, there was little doubt he would find his way to a win.
Ruud was efficient in his win over Borges, converting his lone break point and serving as well as he has all week, broken just once here through four matches. An apparent knee injury looked to hamper him late, however, and it is unknown what effect that may have against Carlitos. Regardless, Ruud is just 1-6 against the Spaniard and will need to redline to stand much of a chance.
This is too tall a task for Ruud against this version of Alcaraz, who has cleared -3.5 games in six of his last seven wins. With a potential US Open rematch against Shelton on the line, Alcaraz will be locked in. A shot at revenge against the man who hired his former coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, is one win away. I expect him to dominate.
Alcaraz vs Ruud prediction: Alcaraz -3.5 games (-174) available at time of publishing.
