Carlos Alcaraz Climbs to Third All-Time in Clay Win Percentage After Monte Carlo Victory
Carlos Alcaraz continues to carve his name into the clay-court history books.
With his latest victory over Argentina’s Francisco Cerúndolo at the Monte-Carlo Masters, the 20-year-old Spaniard has now won 82 of his first 100 matches on clay. That places him fourth all-time in total clay wins through 100 matches—and even more impressively, his 82% win rate ranks third-best in ATP history on the surface.
Despite his natural talent on clay, Alcaraz once declared it his second-favorite surface, behind hard courts. But after his win in Monte Carlo, he appeared to have a change of heart.
“I think I want to put it as my favorite now,” he said, after scribbling ‘I missed clay’ on the camera lens. “I love this time of year. I grew up on this surface, so that’s why I’ll put it first.”
Clay Roots Run Deep
From the beginning, Alcaraz has thrived on red dirt. His first ATP win came on clay in Rio de Janeiro in 2020, at just 16 years old, defeating Albert Ramos-Viñolas in a tense three-set battle.
He clinched his first ATP title on clay as well—cruising past Richard Gasquet to win Umag in 2021.
Now a Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1, Alcaraz’s clay resume is rapidly growing:
- 24 tournaments played
- 12 finals reached
- 15 semifinals appearances
- 17 quarterfinal runs
- 8 clay titles so far
Up next, Alcaraz will face Germany’s Daniel Altmaier for a spot in the Monte Carlo quarterfinals.
Top 5 Players by Most Wins in First 100 Clay Matches
| Rank | Player | Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Ken Rosewall | 90 |
| 2. | Rafael Nadal | 88 |
| 3. | Mats Wilander | 84 |
| 4. | Carlos Alcaraz | 82 |
| 4. | Tom Okker | 82 |
