Alcaraz drops into contention for semis

Spaniard opens his ATP Finals account, as rival Ruud misses chance to claim a last-four spot with a match to spare

TURIN, Italy — Carlos Alcaraz had his drop shot clicking and it helped him overcome physical issues to claim a 6-3, 7-6 (8) victory over Andrey Rublev at the ATP Finals on Wednesday.

The win put Alcaraz back into contention for a spot in the semifinals of the year-ending tournament for the top eight players, after he was beaten by Casper Ruud in straight sets in his opener.

Also, Alexander Zverev made it two wins in two matches by beating Ruud 7-6 (3), 6-3.