Carlos Alcaraz launched his French Open title defence in commanding fashion on Monday, cruising past Italy’s Giulio Zeppieri in straight sets — 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 — in just under two hours on the red clay of Roland Garros.
The 21-year-old Spaniard was flawless in his opener, dazzling the crowd with all-court shotmaking, relentless energy, and razor-sharp net approaches, continuing his scorching 2025 form.
“The first round is never easy, especially as defending champion. But I started strong and kept my rhythm throughout,” Alcaraz said post-match, as quoted by ATP.
🔥 Stats That Matter:
- Duration: 1 hour 56 minutes
- Scoreline: 6-3, 6-4, 6-2
- Net Points Won: Over 80% success
- Clay Record Since May 2024: 28 wins, 2 losses
- Wins on Clay in 2025: 16 out of 17 matches
🎾 Road to Greatness
Alcaraz, aiming to become the first player since Rafael Nadal (2019–2020) to defend the Roland Garros crown, showed he’s ready for the challenge. His maiden triumphs in Monte-Carlo and Rome, capped with a win over World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, have set the tone for a dominant clay season.
Since clinching Olympic silver in Paris in 2024 and winning the Roland Garros title the same year, Alcaraz has solidified his standing as the undisputed king of clay’s next generation.
⏭️ What’s Next?
Alcaraz will next face Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan on Wednesday, a player known for his unpredictability and tactical depth.
“I was really excited to play my first match here this year. I’m just focused on staying in rhythm and playing my game,” Alcaraz added.