'It isn’t about playing the final, it’s about winning': Ruthless Alcaraz outclasses Sinner to conquer Rome

Carlos Alcaraz was pleased with the level he displayed throughout the week at the Rome Open and acknowledged that he’ll arrive at Roland Garros with full confidence to defend his title. The four-time Grand Slam champion defeated Italy’s Jannik Sinner in an epic final to claim his second consecutive Masters 1000 title.

The Spaniard heads to the French Open with the tough task of defending his crown, but considering his recent clay-court performances, he is likely the top favourite to lift the trophy.

In the final against Sinner, Alcaraz saved a couple of set points in the opening set and turned things around in the tiebreak. Once he gained momentum, he never looked back, closing out a dominant 7-6, 6-1 win to become a well-deserved champion in Rome.

“I’m proud of myself and the way I approached the game and the match. Mentally, in terms of hitting shots.. tactically I think I did it pretty well. I didn’t do a rollercoaster. I maintained my good level the whole match. So I’m really really proud of everything over done today.”

“All eyes are on Paris right now. Everyone is focused on that tournament. Beating Jannik, winning Rome.. both things together give you great confidence coming to Paris. I always say the final isn’t about playing the final, it’s about winning. To go for it. I’m just really happy.

“I’m gonna enjoy this moment with my family, team, and friends who came from home. A few days of resting just to realize what I’ve achieved. That’s important as well. Then my focus is on Roland Garros.”

Roland Garros will begin next Monday, May 26th, with Sinner as the first seed and Alcaraz as the second seed. This means they could only face each other in a potential final. Back in 2024, they already met in the semifinals, with Alcaraz winning in 5 sets: 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3.