Carlos Alcaraz Draws Tough Path at Monte Carlo Masters Amid Focus Concerns

Carlos Alcaraz’s clay court season kicks off with a tricky start at the 2025 Monte Carlo Masters, and all eyes are on how the reigning French Open champion will perform following a surprise admission about his current form.

A Potential Clash with Francisco Cerundolo

If Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo defeats Fabio Fognini in his opening round, he will meet Alcaraz in the second round—a challenging way to begin Alcaraz’s clay court campaign.

World No. 23 Cerundolo, a clay court specialist, recently beat top names like Tommy Paul and Casper Ruud at the Miami Open. He also pushed Alcaraz in a hard-fought quarter-final match at Indian Wells, highlighting his current form.

Having already reached the final of a clay event in Argentina this year and competed in Brazil and Rio, Cerundolo will be confident heading into this possible matchup.

Matteo Arnaldi and Casper Ruud Also Lurk

Should Alcaraz get past Cerundolo, he could face another clay court threat in Matteo Arnaldi, who managed to take a set off him at Indian Wells.

Further down the line, Casper Ruud—a three-time Grand Slam finalist—could pose another formidable challenge. Ruud is in Alcaraz’s half of the draw and has a strong clay pedigree.

Alcaraz’s Miami Setback and Honest Reflection

Alcaraz suffered a surprising early exit at the Miami Open, losing to David Goffin. After the match, he gave a brutally honest assessment of his form:

“It was a poor level from me. I didn’t play well, physically I didn’t feel well. I wasn’t injured, I wasn’t sick—I just didn’t feel right in my legs.”

He added:

“I felt good before the match, a little nervous, which is normal. I thought I was going to play really good tennis. It didn’t happen.”

Mouratoglou Reacts to Alcaraz’s Candid Comments

Top coach Patrick Mouratoglou, who has coached legends like Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka, expressed surprise at Alcaraz’s openness:

“It was a choice for him to say that. Most players wouldn’t admit it, but maybe it helps him mentally.”

Mouratoglou continued:

“Maybe the fact that he verbalized it will put more pressure on him. It’s unusual, but even greats like Rafael Nadal have gone through similar phases.”

Can Alcaraz Bounce Back?

With the clay season underway, Carlos Alcaraz will be looking to shake off his Miami disappointment and rediscover his best form. With tough opponents ahead, the Monte Carlo Masters will be a true test of both his physical and mental readiness.