Carlos Alcaraz has revealed he’s dealing with some pain ahead of his Shanghai Masters round-of-16 clash later this week.

It’s been a year to remember for Alcaraz with the Spanish ace maintaining his strong form right through until the end of 2024.

Alcaraz showed his class at the China Open last week, where he came from one set down to take the title against Jannik Sinner in the final.

But with back-to-back titles a distinct possibility, Alcaraz has admitted he’s struggling with a minor knock.

Speaking after he beat Yibing Wu in the third round, Alcaraz said: “Well, I’m feeling great. Honestly, I’m feeling some pain in some part of the body, but what is normal for tennis player, you know, we have to deal with it. I’m feeling great.”

It comes amid a mini-row that’s emerged between Alcaraz and familiar foe on the court, Sinner.

The Italian has been vocal about the stresses placed on the modern tennis player, suggesting the schedule is too demanding.

During the tournament held in Shanghai, Sinner commented: “I’m just happy to be part of these kind of matches as always and, you know, it’s, for sure, was something good. But also it’s important for me that the day for tomorrow.

“I have one day off, which I need to recover, it’s, for me, trying to prioritise this kind of thing now, and hopefully be ready for after tomorrow.”

However, Alcaraz believes the differences in fatigue levels can be placed down to playing styles and in some cases, luck of the draw.

Alcaraz continued: “I think we both have different style on the court. I mean, today he played a really intense match, long rallies, long match. So, for me the last two matches has been not really tough physically, you know, in terms of physically.

“So, I’m just feeling great, really happy to have a day off to recover, to practice a little bit and take it easy and be ready for the next round.”

Alcaraz will face one of Gael Monfils or Ugo Humbert in the fourth round, while Sinner is set to play either Roberto Carballes Baena or Ben Shelton.

The two could still meet each other in the final of a second consecutive event, which is due to be held on Sunday 13 October.