'He has showed he has something extra': Two-time French Open runner-up gives Carlos Alcaraz 'edge' over Jannik Sinner for Roland Garros 2025

Former Spanish player Alex Corretja believes that his fellow countryman Carlos Alcaraz has a ‘bit of an edge’ ahead of Italy’s Jannik Sinner for the French Open 2025. The second Grand Slam of the year will begin on May 27, where players from all over the world will participate to showcase their talent and secure the ultimate prize.

In the men’s singles category, Alcaraz will be defending his crown. He lifted the title last year after beating Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the final in a five-set thriller with a score of 6–3, 2–6, 5–7, 6–1, 6–2. His closest rival will undoubtedly be Italy’s Sinner, who is coming into this competition as the number-one seed.

Both players faced each other in the final of the recently concluded Rome Open where Alcaraz came out on top in straight sets with a score of 7-6, 6-1. It was his fourth consecutive win over the reigning world number one and is now leading the head-to-head 7-4 in 11 matches.

Two-time French Open finalist Corretja spoke to TNT Sports, giving Alcaraz ‘edge’ over the three-time Grand Slam winner for Roland Garros this year. However, the 51-year-old was of the opinion that Sinner is likely to raise his level as the tournament progresses.

"I think he's got a bit of an edge at the moment before the tournament starts," said Corretja. "But as the tournament goes on, I think Jannik will raise his level. And if they will play the final - which is in a few more weeks, and it's still a long way to go, and we need to be very respectful for the other players, too - I think they would get into the final with similar chances. Considering that it's clay, Carlos, in this moment, he has showed that he has something extra, but I won't take away Jannik because I think he's going to be very much ready for the battle."