Alcaraz ‘expected worse’ at start of French Open title defence

French Open 2025

Location: Roland Garros, May 25 – June

After winning the French Open title for the first time in straight sets, Carlos Alcaraz claimed that he “expected a worse level” from himself.

In just one hour and 56 minutes, the four-time major champion from Spain won 6-3, 6-4, and 6-2 over Giulio Zeppieri, who is also a qualifier from Italy.

The 22-year-old wants to win the Roland Garros title for the first time since Rafael Nadal in 2020.

Alcaraz said he did not anticipate such a smooth start to his campaign despite winning 27 of his 29 clay matches since May of last year.

World No. 2 Alcaraz remarked, “I expected a worse level for me, honestly.”

It’s difficult to adapt and get used to the conditions in the first round of a tournament.

In the lead-up to the French Open, Alcaraz won titles in Monte Carlo and Rome, and he came in second place behind Holger Rune in Barcelona, his only defeat in 16 clay-court contests in 2025.

However, those performances came after David Goffin’s unexpected Miami Open defeat in March. With his only success this year on the courts, he won the Rotterdam Open.

Alcaraz compared his current form to Alcaraz’, “We all know the roller coaster that has been this year for me, making really good results before losing the first round.”

“But I believe I’ve found a really good path once more,” she said. I believe I’m just starting to get it as more people get ready for the games.

I believe I’m just maintaining the high standard throughout the entire match and the entire tournament once I begin the matches.