🔗 Share this article

The British tennis star earned the most important victory of his career by rebounding from a set down to defeat world No 1 Carlos Alcaraz 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the early stage of the Paris Masters.

Even though he had before overcome Alcaraz on two separate matches, this win represents Norrie's first ever victory over a sitting world number one.

"Massive. So big for me," said Norrie, who is now the fifth English competitor in the record books to overcome a world No 1. "Returning from a physical setback last year, I was defeated in the first round of qualies here. I just tried to embrace my game in the second half of the year. To get a victory like this, it's the most significant victory of my professional life, my initial victory over the top player and arguably the most confident athlete in the tennis scene right now."

The British player, positioned No 31, also ended Alcaraz's impressive run of nine finals in a row and 17 straight premier event successes, which marked the finest stretch of outcomes in the young champion's early career.

Match Breakdown

The top seed appeared to be advancing smoothly to success at the start as he sailed in the opening set. However, the British contender steadily fought his way back into the game by delivering with improved accuracy and engaging the Spaniard into lengthy, physical points. His relentless shot tolerance and reliability gradually took its toll.

Through most of the match, the world number one served well but he found it challenging to find his timing on his baseline shots. The young star seemed especially uncomfortable hitting his signature shot, which has been the top weapon in the game for most of this year, committing 29 mistakes off the forehand side and a combined of 54 errors. Opposing him, Norrie gave Alcaraz very few errors, sustaining his reliability, physicality and penetration all match while serving efficiently and choosing his moments to force himself forward and attack well.

Closing Stages

In the tight last moments, the British competitor brilliantly kept his nerve to overcome the top competitor in the world.

Professional Background

After dealing for a long time due to a serious left forearm injury and difficulties with his form, the tennis professional dropped as far down as 91st globally this year. Having reached the advanced stages at the grass-court major and the clay-court Grand Slam round of 16 since then, this win reinforces the 30-year-old's improvement as he attempts to make his way to the elite rankings and even higher. Alcaraz, notwithstanding his incredible success, is yet to figure out how to display his finest performance in indoor conditions.