Carlos Alcaraz leads Team Europe to fifth Laver Cup title
What's the story
Carlos Alcaraz, the rising star of Spanish tennis, led Team Europe to a thrilling victory in the 2024 Laver Cup. The team secured their fifth title after Alcaraz defeated Taylor Fritz with a scoreline of 6-2, 7-5. This win contributed three points to Team Europe's total, resulting in a final score of 13-11 against Team World on September 22.
Tournament turnaround
Team Europe's comeback; second win for Alcaraz
Team Europe started the day, trailing 4-8 in points. However, the side bounced back when Alcaraz and Casper Ruud beat Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe in the opening doubles match. This victory brought the scoreline to 7-8. Despite Ben Shelton extending Team World's lead with a win over Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev reignited Team Europe's hopes with his triumph over Francis Tiafoe.
Emotional tribute
Alcaraz dedicates victory to retiring captain Borg
In the final match, Alcaraz secured a straight-sets win over Fritz, ensuring Team Europe's victory. Following their victory, the four-time major champion dedicated this win to Team Europe's retiring captain Bjorn Borg. "We did it for you," said Alcaraz after the win. Borg expressed his pride in his team and acknowledged the tough competition posed by Team World at Laver Cup.
Form
Alcaraz's form in 2024
Alcaraz, who claimed the French Open and Wimbledon titles this year, displayed his class once again in the Laver Cup. The Spaniard has a win-loss record of 43-9 in the ongoing season. His only other title this year came at the Indian Wells. He also secured the silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, having lost the final to Novak Djokovic.
Information
Fifth title for Team Europe
As mentioned, Team Europe have claimed their fifth Laver Cup title. However, it was their first title since the 2021 edition. Team World clinched two successive titles in between (2022 and 2023).