Alcaraz ends British hopes with defeat of Norrie

Carlos Alcaraz signalled the end for British chances at the Indian Wells Masters as the top seed hammered former champion Cam Norrie 6-3, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals.

The Spaniard will play his fifth straight semi-final at the desert event and remains undefeated this season on 16-0.

Norrie lifted the Californian trophy in 2021 but was ot match for the top seed in 94 minutes, with Alcaraz striking 27 winners closely followed by 26 unforced errors.

Alcaraz also took revenge after losing to Norrie last November indoors in Paris.

“I struggle a lot with his style,” the Spaniard said. “Every time I play against him it’s always really tough for me. 

“It’s a little bit confusing with his style, his topspin forehand (style), super high. And then the backhand, really flat and really low. 

“Sometimes it’s tricky to play against him. I’m finding the right shot. I played well. I played solid. I played aggressive when I could. I’m happy to play this level.”

Norrie grabbed a 2-0 lead after losing the opening set but could not prevent a four-game sweep for Alcaraz which helped to seal victory as he converted on four of 10 break chances.

Alcaraz is now the third man to reach five consecutive Indian Wells semi-finals, after Rafael Nadal (2006-13) and Novak Djokovic (2011-16).

The Spaniard will next play former No. 1 Daniil Medvedev, whom he has defeated in their last four matches; he also beat Medvedev in Indian Wells finals in 2023 and 2024.