Mats Wilander Issues Warning to Carlos Alcaraz Ahead of Red Clay Season
Carlos Alcaraz has officially begun training on red clay, a surface well-suited to his dynamic playing style—and one on which he hopes to collect more prestigious titles this season. The 21-year-old Spaniard is aiming to make a strong statement following an uneven 2024 clay season, hampered by a forearm injury that forced him to withdraw from both the Monte Carlo and Rome Masters.
Despite the setback, Alcaraz surged back at Roland Garros, delivering a career-defining run. He defeated rival Jannik Sinner in the semifinals and edged out Alexander Zverev in the final to secure his fourth Grand Slam title.
Now ranked No. 3 in the world, Alcaraz returns to the Monte Carlo Masters next week—his first appearance at the tournament since 2022, when he suffered an early exit to Sebastian Korda. He’ll open this year’s campaign against the winner of Fabio Fognini vs. Francisco Cerúndolo.
Wilander: Clay Still a Challenge for Alcaraz
Despite Alcaraz’s Roland Garros success, tennis legend Mats Wilander isn’t entirely convinced red clay is his best surface.
Speaking on Eurosport, Wilander said:
“Even though he won in Paris last year, I’m not so sure red clay is the surface that suits him best. He’s an incredible all-court player, and it wouldn’t shock me if he won Roland Garros again—but it won’t be easy.”
The former World No. 1 added that Alcaraz might face early challenges on clay before hitting his stride later in the season:
“I think he’ll struggle a bit in his first few tournaments on the surface. But come Paris, I expect him to shine again. Still, his results lately have been unpredictable.”
A Rocky Start to 2025
Alcaraz’s 2025 season has seen highs and lows. He’s captured just one title so far and suffered several unexpected defeats, raising questions about his consistency as he heads into a critical part of the year.
With the French Open just weeks away, the pressure is on for Carlitos to rediscover the rhythm and dominance that made him a Grand Slam champion.
