ATP Finals: Carlos Alcaraz beats Andrey Rublev in straight sets as he overcomes illness in crucial clash

Carlos Alcaraz battles through illness to beat Andrey Rublev and reach semi-finals

Carlos Alcaraz has reached the semi-finals of the ATP Finals after beating Andrey Rublev in straight sets. The 19-year-old Spaniard, who is playing in the tournament for the first time, won 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) in one hour and 53 minutes.

Alcaraz, who is ranked No. 1 in the world, had to overcome a slow start against Rublev. The Russian broke Alcaraz's serve in the opening game of the match but the Spaniard broke back immediately.

Alcaraz then took control of the first set, breaking Rublev's serve again in the seventh game. He served out the set to take a 6-4 lead.

The second set was much closer. Rublev broke Alcaraz's serve in the fourth game but the Spaniard broke back immediately. The set went to a tie-break, which Alcaraz won 7-5.

Alcaraz will now face Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals. Nadal is a 22-time Grand Slam champion and has won the ATP Finals twice.

Rublev will face Casper Ruud in the other semi-final. Ruud is ranked No. 3 in the world and is playing in the ATP Finals for the first time.