Alcaraz's ATP Finals hopes on brink of tatters after Zverev setback

Stuttering start to Turin campaign for Spanish teenager

Defeat to Zverev means Alcaraz must now beat Ruud and Fritz to reach semi-finals

Carlos Alcaraz's ATP Finals hopes are hanging in the balance after he suffered a frustrating defeat to Alexander Zverev in Turin on Monday.

The 19-year-old Spaniard, who is making his debut at the season-ending tournament, had been hoping to make a strong start to his campaign in Italy.

However, he was outplayed by Zverev, who won 6-2 6-1 in just 69 minutes.

The defeat means Alcaraz must now beat Casper Ruud and Taylor Fritz in his remaining Group A matches if he is to reach the semi-finals.

It is a tall order for the world No. 1, who is still struggling to find his best form after a busy season.

Alcaraz has won five titles this year, including the US Open, but he has also suffered some disappointing defeats.

He will be hoping to put his Turin campaign back on track when he faces Ruud on Wednesday.