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Carlos Alcaraz delivered a stellar performance to lead Team Europe to a stunning comeback victory over Team World in the 2024 Laver Cup. Held in Berlin, the tournament saw Europe trailing 4-8 heading into the final day, but Alcaraz's winning efforts in both singles and doubles sealed a 13-11 triumph for the team.
The 21-year-old Spaniard first paired with Casper Ruud to secure a crucial doubles victory over Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe. He then followed it up by defeating US Open finalist Taylor Fritz in straight sets, winning 6-2, 7-5. Alcaraz's individual contributions alone accounted for a tournament-record eight points.
Team Europe's victory marks their fifth overall Laver Cup win and their first since 2021. The dramatic turnaround was set in motion by Alexander Zverev's win against Tiafoe in a tie-breaker after losing the first set. Zverev's success gave Alcaraz the opportunity to clinch the title for Europe in his next match.
Alcaraz's form in Berlin came after a challenging period that included early exits from the Cincinnati Open and US Open. However, he showed his resilience in the Laver Cup, demonstrating that he is back to his best.
Team captain Björn Borg praised his players, admitting that he initially thought victory was out of reach. As Borg and his counterpart John McEnroe prepare to step down from their roles after six years, the competition will enter a new era under the leadership of Yannick Noah for Europe and Andre Agassi for Team World.
