India, Nov. 12 -- Carlos Alcaraz took a major step toward ending the 2025 season as the world's top-ranked player after grinding out a 6-7 (2), 7-5, 6-3 victory over Taylor Fritz at the ATP Finals on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old Spaniard, who had already opened his campaign with a win, is now just one victory away from clinching the year-end No. 1 ranking for the second time in his career. Alcaraz can seal the top spot by defeating Lorenzo Musetti in his final group-stage match or by winning his semifinal encounter should he advance.

"It's really difficult not to think about the No. 1 spot," Alcaraz admitted after the win. "But I'm trying to focus on my game and on enjoying this moment. Matches like this one are really demanding, both menta...