Carlos Alcaraz Emerges as French Open Favorite Amid Jannik Sinner's Comeback

As the French Open approaches, Carlos Alcaraz stands out as the top contender following his recent victory over Jannik Sinner at the Italian Open. Sinner, returning from a doping ban, is working to regain his form and has acknowledged Alcaraz's current dominance on clay. Their recent match showcased Sinner's potential, despite his struggles after a three-month hiatus. With both players aiming for success at Roland Garros, the anticipation builds for a possible rematch in the finals. Explore the dynamics of their rivalry and what lies ahead in this Grand Slam showdown.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 19, 2025, 14:20 IST

Alcaraz's Dominance on Clay

Carlos Alcaraz is currently viewed as the frontrunner for the upcoming French Open. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner, who has recently returned from a doping suspension, is gradually regaining his form.

This assessment follows Alcaraz's victory over Sinner at the Italian Open, just a week prior to the start of Roland Garros on Sunday.

With this win in Rome, Alcaraz has improved his clay court record for the season to an impressive 15 wins and only 1 loss.

During the trophy presentation, Sinner acknowledged Alcaraz's prowess, stating, 'Right now, on clay, you are the best player.'

Sinner had two opportunities to secure the first set against Alcaraz in his first tournament back after a three-month hiatus.

Alcaraz praised Sinner's performance, saying, 'The level he has played in this tournament is incredible after three months off. He will only get better and will be a formidable opponent in Paris.' Should they face each other again in Paris, it would likely be in the finals, as Alcaraz has ascended to the No. 2 ranking, placing them on opposite sides of the draw.

Last year, Alcaraz defeated Sinner in a five-set semifinal at the French Open, ultimately claiming the title. He also successfully defended his Wimbledon title, marking his fourth Grand Slam victory.

Sinner reflected on the match, noting, 'It was beneficial to compete against him before two Grand Slams. I need to refine my movement and positioning, as clay differs from hard courts. There are minor adjustments I must make.'

The Italian candidly admitted, 'Clay is the surface I struggle with the most. There's no point in denying it.'

Indeed, Sinner has secured only one of his 19 career titles on clay, which he won in Umag, Croatia, in 2022, defeating Alcaraz in the final.

Sinner's absence from the sport was evident as he struggled to compete in the second set against Alcaraz in front of his home crowd at the Foro Italico.

'I definitely need to boost my intensity and maintain it for longer periods,' Sinner acknowledged. 'I need to play more matches.' This defeat ended Sinner's impressive 26-match winning streak, which included his third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January.

'Paris will present a completely different challenge,' Sinner remarked. 'It's a Grand Slam, which brings a different set of emotions. The pressure will certainly rise, as Grand Slams hold greater significance for me. But I thrive on that.'