Class Carlos Alcaraz opens Roland Garros title defence in style

Carlos Alcaraz in his new Nike kit made a statement not only in the fashion department but also on court as he eased past Giulio Zeppieri in three sets 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 at the 2025 French Open.

The defending champion eased past the qualifier to send an early statement to the competition. He is aiming to become the first male since Rafael Nadal in 2019-2020 to defend his title. He has won 16/17 tour level matches on clay this year.

“It was really, really solid,” said Alcaraz. “The first round of the tournament is never easy, coming here as the defending champion could be even tougher. But I just started pretty well, and kept my good pace during the whole match. I tried to be focused on my game, to get a good rhythm.

“I’m just really proud of my start here at Roland Garros, where I was really excited to play my first match this year.”

In the first round, Alcaraz was wowing from all ends of the court. He won 21 out of 25 points advancing to the net and saved all three break points he faced during the near two hour duel.

After seeing Rafael Nadal's emotional tribute last night, he will be looking to emulate the Spanish hero by thriving on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Others through already include Casper Ruud who also eased through against Albert Ramos Vinolas. Hugo Gaston won in five sets against Ugo Blanchet.

While Alejandro Tabilo also won in five against Arthur Cazaux earlier today. Very much easing through for the top names and difficulties for the others involved as Alcaraz and Ruud show their class.