Carlos Alcaraz’s mid-match comments to coach raise concern over Monte-Carlo title defence

Alcaraz started his match against Etcheverry on the front foot, cruising through the first set 6-1. But things took a turn in the second, as he struggled to find any rhythm.

During that period, he was caught telling Lopez: “It’s really hard to trust it when I don’t have the feeling with the ball right now.”

Even though Alcaraz managed to steady himself and close out the match, there are tougher tests ahead.

The world number one now prepares to face Alexander Bublik and will be keen to settle into his groove before then.

If Alcaraz manages another win this year, he’ll join a select group of players who have defended their title at Monte-Carlo in this century.

He’d be following in the footsteps of his former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, Rafael Nadal, and Stefanos Tsitsipas if he pulls it off.

Why Carlos Alcaraz has found the going tough at Monte-Carlo

Although Alcaraz’s draw wasn’t quite as tough as Jannik Sinner’s, it hasn’t been a walk in the park either. The transition from hard courts to clay is never easy, and he had to face two players well-suited to the surface straight away.

Sebastian Baez and Etcheverry had already spent time on clay earlier in the year, taking part in events during the South American swing back in February.

Next up is Bublik, who may not be a traditional clay-courter but has put together an impressive run on this surface over the past year. Since May 2025 at the Italian Open, Bublik holds a 19-2 record on clay and is currently riding a 10-match win streak.

Alcaraz has yet to beat Bublik in their previous meetings, so he’ll need to hit top form if he wants to change that record.