Carlos Alcaraz plans demanding clay schedule ahead of French Open
World number one Carlos Alcaraz is aiming to complete a full schedule of European clay-court tournaments as he prepares to defend his French Open title.
The Spaniard returns to his preferred surface in Monaco this week to build momentum ahead of the showpiece event at Roland Garros.
He claimed victory in Paris last June by defeating Italian rival Jannik Sinner in a thrilling final.
Embracing the dirt
Speaking to reporters in Monte Carlo, the 22-year-old expressed his excitement about returning to the natural surface.
“I miss clay every time the clay season is over,” he said.
“In my first practices, I said to my team that it’s time to get the socks dirty again.”
Despite missing last year’s Madrid Open due to injury, the seven-time Grand Slam champion intends to compete extensively before the main draw in Paris begins on 24 May.
A gruelling physical test
His intended route to the French capital includes demanding stops at Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid and Rome.
“It’s very demanding physically and mentally,” he acknowledged.
“The week in Barcelona is perhaps when I should rest, but Barcelona is a very important tournament for me.”
The current world number one emphasised that managing his fitness will be crucial during this intense stretch of matches.
Building on past success
Reflecting on his previous campaign, the reigning champion credited his Monte Carlo victory as the catalyst for an exceptional year.
“After the feeling that I got here, I just got better and better,” he added.
He will open his latest campaign against either Swiss veteran Stan Wawrinka or Argentina’s Sebastian Baez in the second round.
However, his primary threat remains world number two Sinner, who recently dominated the hard-court swing by winning the Sunshine Double at Indian Wells and Miami.
