Carlos Alcaraz says what he finds ‘crazy’ about Richard Gasquet ahead of French Open match against Jannik Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz expressed deep admiration for Richard Gasquet, calling his longevity in professional tennis “crazy” ahead of Gasquet’s second-round match against Jannik Sinner at the 2025 French Open on May 29, 2025. Speaking in a press conference after his second-round win over Giulio Zeppieri (6-3, 6-4, 6-2), Alcaraz highlighted Gasquet’s enduring career, noting, “I grew up watching Richard Gasquet. It’s crazy to think he’s still playing at this level at 38, in his final tournament. The way he’s competed for so many years is incredible,” per @TennisActu and @Sport24Team on X. Alcaraz’s comments reflect his respect for Gasquet, who is retiring after his 22nd Roland Garros appearance, facing world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in what could be his last professional match.
Context of Alcaraz’s Praise
Alcaraz, the defending French Open champion and world No. 2, spoke as Gasquet, a former world No. 7, prepared to take on Sinner on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Gasquet, ranked No. 133, advanced past Terence Atmane in an all-French first-round clash, setting up a daunting challenge against Sinner, who holds a 3-0 head-to-head lead. Alcaraz’s remarks emphasized Gasquet’s resilience, saying, “He’s a player you watch for years and years… It’s great to see him still fighting. I hope he enjoys his last moments here.” This sentiment echoes Sinner’s own tribute, where he called sharing the court with Gasquet “special.”
Gasquet’s Legacy and the Match Ahead
Gasquet, a 16-time ATP title winner, has been a French tennis icon for over two decades, known for his elegant single-handed backhand and battles with the Big Three (Federer, Nadal, Djokovic). His decision to retire at Roland Garros, which he called “light-years above all other tournaments,” underscores its significance. Against Sinner, Gasquet faces long odds, with betting markets heavily favoring the Italian, who cruised past Arthur Rinderknech 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 in the first round. Gasquet’s 40% break point conversion rate this year offers a glimmer of hope, but his 25 double faults and diminished physicality at 38 make an upset unlikely.
Alcaraz’s Connection to Gasquet and Sinner
Alcaraz, who idolized Rafael Nadal growing up, sees Gasquet as part of the tennis tapestry he watched as a child. His comments also come amid his rivalry with Sinner, whom he defeated 7-6(5), 6-1 in the Italian Open final on May 18, 2025, snapping Sinner’s 26-match win streak. Alcaraz praised Sinner’s return from a three-month doping ban, saying, “It’s crazy how he came back to this level so fast,” a nod to Sinner’s resilience that parallels Gasquet’s longevity. Posts on X, like @TennisActu’s, highlight Alcaraz’s emotional tribute to Gasquet, amplifying the moment’s significance.
Conclusion
Carlos Alcaraz called Richard Gasquet’s 22-year career “crazy,” marveling at the 38-year-old’s longevity ahead of his French Open second-round match against Jannik Sinner on May 29, 2025. As Gasquet, retiring after Roland Garros, faces a formidable Sinner, Alcaraz’s praise underscores the Frenchman’s legacy. Alcaraz’s own rivalry with Sinner, marked by a recent Italian Open win, adds depth to his comments. Like Littler, Raducanu, Collins, Grealish, Gauff, and de Minaur, Alcaraz’s tribute reflects admiration for enduring excellence in sport. Watch the match live on TNT Sports.
