Alcaraz accounts for holder Rublev in Doha

Carlos Alcaraz needed two hours to fight off a stiff challenge from ATP Doha holder Andrey Rublev, extending his current win streak to 11 matches with a 7-6 (3), 6-4 win on Friday into the final.

The world No. 1 will play for the title in the Gulf for the first time; he needed five match points to finally overcome Rublev and advance to the Saturday final..

Alcaraz moved into apparent winning position with a break for a lead of a set and 5-3 but lost his way a game later as Rublev broke for 4-5 after saving three match points.

But the top seeded Spaniard broke back in the ensuing game and finally moved through on his sixth match point on a Rublev return error.

“I know what I’m able to do when I step onto the court,” the winner said. “I like the way I’m playing, I’m very proud of it.”All of the focus is paying off, I’m happy I’m getting better.

“I had to find solutions in this match. Today I was calm and played positive.”

Alcaraz will play the 34th final of his career; he has reached finals in 12 of the last 13 tournaments he has played.

Main photo:- Carlos Alcaraz by ISF Ltd