Carlos Alcaraz, the defending Roland Garros champion and world No. 2, shared insights into what sets his 2025 French Open campaign apart, emphasizing a newfound confidence and physical readiness despite recent injury setbacks. Speaking to Roland-Garros Magazine on May 22, 2025, Alcaraz highlighted the emotional significance of returning to Paris as the champion, stating, “It’s incredible to be back here in Paris, especially now I have all these great memories.” Unlike 2024, when he arrived with a forearm injury and limited clay matches, Alcaraz noted, “This year is different because I’m coming in with great wins this clay season, so my confidence is really high.” His 2025 clay record stands at 15-1, including titles at Monte Carlo and Rome, where he defeated Jannik Sinner 7-6(5), 6-1 in the final, snapping Sinner’s 26-match win streak.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_Carlos_Alcaraz_tennis_season)[](https://www.eurosport.es/tenis/roland-garros/2025/analisis-carlos-alcaraz-regreso-paris-defensa-titulo-triunfo-roma_sto23184111/story.shtml)
Alcaraz also pointed to tactical adjustments, including a switch to a heavier Babolat racket for added power and stability, which he believes enhances his already lethal forehand. “With this racket, I feel I can hit with more depth and control, which is crucial on clay,” he told Marca, crediting his coaching team, including new addition Samuel Lopez alongside Juan Carlos Ferrero. However, he acknowledged challenges, having withdrawn from the Madrid Open due to a right adductor tear and left hamstring soreness after a Barcelona final loss to Holger Rune. “Last year, I was managing pain. This time, I’m fully recovered and ready to defend my title,” he said, per Eurosport.[](https://motorcyclesports.net/carlos-alcarazs-bold-racket-switch-is-he-following-federers-playbook-to-australian-open-glory/)[](https://www.eurosport.es/tenis/roland-garros/2025/analisis-carlos-alcaraz-regreso-paris-defensa-titulo-triunfo-roma_sto23184111/story.shtml)
His draw, starting against Kei Nishikori and potentially facing Casper Ruud in the quarterfinals, avoids Sinner until the final, boosting his prospects. Alcaraz emphasized mental focus, saying, “I’m more concentrated against top players like Sinner,” a mindset he credits for his 4-0 record against him in 2024-2025. Fans on X, like @tennisweeklypod, echoed his optimism, quoting him: “I’m excited.” Despite the pressure of defending his 2024 five-set triumph over Alexander Zverev, Alcaraz views Roland Garros as “a very special place,” driven by childhood memories of watching Rafael Nadal.
