PARIS, France — Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning champion, kicked off his title defense at Roland Garros on May 26, 2025, with a solid victory over Giulio Zeppieri, winning 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in just under two hours.
After arriving at the courts early with his coaches, Juan Carlos Ferrero and Samuel López, Alcaraz focused on improving his return game, a crucial aspect against left-handed players. He practiced with his brother, Álvaro, aiming to sharpen his reflexes by hitting shots with his eyes closed until he heard the ball strike the racket.
“I’m feeling great. The first round is never easy, especially as the defending champion. But I managed to start strong and maintain a good rhythm throughout the match,” Alcaraz said in his post-match interview.
Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 2 in the ATP rankings, used his time at the net effectively, converting 90% of his attempts and hitting powerful groundstrokes reaching speeds of 180 kilometers per hour. His performance was a solid reminder of why he is considered one of the favorites to win again this year.
In a match filled with suspense, rain delayed play momentarily, but Alcaraz didn’t waver, continuing to dominate with strategic gameplay. Each point showcased his training focus and mental strength, critical for Grand Slam success.
Looking ahead, Alcaraz expressed excitement about his next match against Hungarian player, Marozsan, who defeated another Italian player in straight sets for his own first-round win. Alcaraz considered this next step vital on his journey to repeating last year’s success.
Meanwhile, in other tournament news, fellow Spaniard Pablo Carreño Busta also triumphed, marking his return to the second round after a long absence due to injuries, defeating Argentina’s Francisco Comesaña.
As the tournament progresses, excitement builds around Alcaraz’s pursuit for another trophy at Roland Garros, with mounting expectations from fans and experts alike.
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