Taylor Fritz stuns Alcaraz as Team World took control on day two of the Laver Cup in San Francisco. The American beat world number one Carlos Alcaraz 6-3 6-2 to give his side a big lead in the competition. It was Fritz’s first win over Alcaraz after three previous defeats.
Team Europe had been ahead 3-1 on Friday. But Team World fought back strongly and now lead 9-3. Four straight victories on Saturday changed the match. Fritz said it was one of the best wins of his career. He explained that he felt he played a complete match and earned every point.
Before Fritz’s win, Alex de Minaur shocked world number three Alexander Zverev 6-1 6-4. Then Francisco Cerundolo beat Holger Rune 6-3 7-6 to add more points. Later, De Minaur teamed up with American Alex Michelsen in doubles. They beat Casper Ruud and Rune 6-3 6-4 to complete a clean sweep.
Alcaraz came into the event on a 13-match winning streak. He had just won the US Open, his sixth Grand Slam title. But he could not match the power and precision of Fritz on the day. The American hit 17 winners and served five aces. He also showed great touch at the net, winning 16 of 20 points.
Taylor Fritz stuns Alcaraz also marked his first victory against a world number one. It was a moment of revenge after losing to the Spaniard at last year’s Laver Cup. Team World now need just two more wins to claim the title.
