‘I fought myself in the mind’ – Alcaraz beats Shelton to reach quarters

French Open 2025

Location: Roland Garros, May 25 – June

After winning four sets against American Ben Shelton, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame a “in the mind” battle to advance to the French Open quarter-finals.

The 22-year-old Spaniard won the match 7-6 (10-8) 6-3 4-6 6-4 against Court Philippe Chatrier, which was his best effort of the tournament so far.

A thumping forehand down the line earned Alcaraz his 100th clay-court victory on the ATP Tour after three hours and 19 minutes of top-notch action.

He said, “To be honest, I fought against myself in the mind today.” I made an effort to be calm, and I occasionally became angry.

I was angry with myself because I was saying bad things. I’m glad I avoided that thought.

“I tried to stay calm and to keep going.”

Alcaraz had to face the big-hitting Shelton on Sunday despite saying he “didn’t enjoy” his battling win over Damir Dzumhur in the third round.

After the favorite’s only unconverted break point, the first set ended in a tie-break, but Shelton was the one to start to win.

Alcaraz was forced to avoid three set points as the pair played out a number of stunning points that saw both players at the net.

The four-time Grand Slam champion took the tie-break, but the second set brought pressure on him immediately.

In the opening game, Shelton earned six break points, but Alcaraz, who turned it on late in the set to claim the crucial break, repeatedly denied her.

Shelton, a 22-year-old Atlanta native, saved a break point for a big hold of 4-4 after the pair exchanged breaks early in the third set.

In the following game, he scored two set points thanks to a strong net chord, and he increased the pressure on his Spanish foe with the second.

Alcaraz quickly regained control, however, and took the lead early in the set for a 2-1 lead. Shelton was unable to return this time despite the pair’s continued eye-catching shots.

Alcaraz continued, “Every time we face off, I said we brought the level to the top.”

We entertained the audience,” he said. He has a lot of power. He is capable of making shots.

We played excellent tennis, in my opinion. We stayed in the stands the entire match thanks to Drops, coming in to the net, and taking big shots.

“It’s great for me to have Ben around, and it’s great to see how active he is in tennis and people are.” I enjoy watching him play.

French 15th-seeded American Frances Tiafoe defeated German Daniel Altmaier 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4).