With Daniil Medvedev’s giving a big defeat to Nick Kyrgios not only ended his title defence much earlier than expected, but the Russian will now also be losing his place in the top of the world rankings.
Dropping 1,820 points from the US Open, he has now made some way for one of three players – Rafael Nadal, Casper Ruud, and Carlos Alcaraz – to fill in the top position in place of him.
Here are the scenarios that must take place for any of the three to be World No. 1 after the final in New York:
Spanish star Nadal will be eyeing to be at the top of the mountain for once and for all. A 23rd Grand Slam title, which equals to Serena Williams at the top of the leaderboard and going two clear against Novak Djokovic.
A fifth US Open, equalling Jimmy Connors, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer for the men’s Open Era record, all are on the line.
Although, Nadal knew when he came to New York, that no matter what happens, the title will confirm his World No. 1 position, and now with Medvedev’s early defeat, things have become even more easy for the Spaniard.
Alcaraz’s immense rise to the top of men’s tennis would be sealed if he wins his first Grand Slam this year, and even though he has a difficult draw ahead of him, he could turn the tables in favour.
Regardless of what happens anywhere, if Alcaraz lifts the title on Sunday, he’ll be the World No. 1, rounding out one of the biggest stories in men’s tennis in recent years.
With 5,810 points, Nadal is already at the top in the Live Rankings. If he goes past French Tiafoe on Monday, but loses in the quarterfinals, he will gain another 180 points, which will be enough as long as Ruud or Alcaraz don’t win the title.
