MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Much of the buzz around the Miami Open this year has centered on 18-year-old Spanish phenom Carlos Alcaraz, and he certainly will be the fan favorite against Casper Ruud in the men’s final at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Alcaraz, aiming to become the youngest champion in tournament’s 37-year history, has drawn big crowds for all his matches the past 10 days, the latest of which was a thrilling 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-2) win over defending champion Hubert Hurkacz in the semifinal Friday night.
But his final opponent, 23-year-old Ruud, is also making history. He is ranked No. 8 in the world, the highest ranking ever for a Norwegian, surpassing his father, Christian, who reached No. 39 in 1995.
