Alcaraz changes tournament plans

Carlos Alcaraz has decided to compete in the ATP 500 tournament in Vienna from October 24 to November 1, 2026, after the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh was postponed. This change allows him to participate in an official event with 500 ATP points at stake instead of taking a break before the Paris Masters 1000.

Six Kings Slam postponed

The Six Kings Slam, an exhibition event in Riyadh scheduled for October 21 to 24, was postponed from December 27 to 30 due to the security situation in Saudi Arabia. This delay frees up a week for Alcaraz to compete in Vienna instead of sitting out before the Paris Masters 1000.

Alcaraz exits Shanghai Masters

Alcaraz had previously exited the Shanghai Masters 1000, losing in the third round to Zizou Bergs. This ends his streak of seven consecutive wins, marking a setback in his recent performance on the ATP tour.

Vienna experience for Alcaraz

This will not be Alcaraz’s first time in Vienna, as he reached the semifinals in 2021 when he was 18. He defeated Andy Murray and Matteo Berrettini before losing to Alexander Zverev, who went on to win the tournament.

Strong draw in Vienna

Five years later, Alcaraz could face Zverev again in a strong draw that includes other top players such as Daniil Medvedev, Alex de Minaur, Andrey Rublev, Flavio Cobolli, and Frances Tiafoe. This competition is expected to be highly challenging and competitive.

Vienna as preparation for Paris Masters

Vienna will serve as additional preparation for Alcaraz ahead of the Paris Masters 1000, scheduled from November 2, and then the ATP Finals in Turin. This end-of-year program promises to be particularly busy for the Spaniard, with multiple high-profile tournaments in quick succession.