Carlos Alcaraz confirms the fitness issue he was suffering with during defeat to Casper Ruud at the ATP Finals

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An out of sorts Carlos Alcaraz fumbled through his opening ATP Finals defeat to Casper Ruud.

The Spaniard came into the match unbeaten against Casper Ruud, having won all four previous meetings.

However, the Spaniard was shocked to a 6-1 defeat in the first set, striking 15 unforced errors to help Ruud to five straight games.

Jolted into action, Carlos Alcaraz leapt to a 5-2 lead in the first set and looked poised to take things to a decider.

However, the Norwegian raised his game to take another five games on the bounce to produce the first big upset of this year’s finals.

Carlos Alcaraz reveals physical issue he was struggling with

An uncharacteristically shaky display from Alcaraz should not undermine what Ruud was able to do.

However, admittedly, the 21-year-old was struggling throughout, regularly blowing his nose at the change of ends.

Alcaraz revealed after the match that he had initially felt a lot better over the last day or two, but unfortunately took a turn today.

“Before I came here I got sick,” he explained. “When I came here I felt better. I could compete, play long exchanges. I was hoping that things would get better as the days went by.

“Today I didn’t feel all that well. My stomach limited me a lot, it prevented me from feeling comfortable,” the 21-year-old admitted.

“I could have done better, but it made it difficult for me to exchange, to recover between points. It sounds like an excuse and I don’t want it to be like that.”

Slightly haggard by the time the match reached its conclusion, it remains to be seen how Alcaraz can recover before his next tie, where defeat would end his chances at a maiden ATP Finals title.

Carlos Alcaraz will play a big part in prolonging Rafael Nadal’s career

Alcaraz has a crucial role in extending Rafael Nadal’s storied career, as he steps up to lead the Spanish team in Malaga.

With Nadal expected to retire after an incredible journey featuring 22 major titles and over two decades on tour, this Davis Cup tie holds extra significance.

Spain faces a challenging matchup against the Netherlands, after Alcaraz guided the team through after winning his qualifying matches against Tomas Machac and Ugo Humbert – players who have since managed to defeat him.

Despite the pressure, Alcaraz will be driven to give his idol a memorable send-off by delivering his best in the knockouts.