Alcaraz Excited to Kick Off Clay Court Season
Carlos Alcaraz, 22, said he feels “incredible” to be back on clay courts. The world No. 1 outlined plans to play several European events before Roland Garros.
Alcaraz said he was excited to kick off the clay court season. He added that he misses clay every time that season finishes.
Monte Carlo title defence
The Spaniard will aim for a second consecutive Monte Carlo crown. He won the tournament last year in only his second appearance.
As top seed he has a first-round bye. He will face either Swiss Stan Wawrinka or Argentine Sebastián Báez in the second round.
Full clay-court campaign intended
Alcaraz confirmed his intention to play Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid and Rome. His goal is to arrive at Roland Garros fully prepared to defend his title.
He admitted he has never completed a full European clay season. Still, he said he plans to contest the four Masters 1000 events plus Roland Garros.
Physical and mental demands
The 22-year-old warned that the clay swing is very demanding. He described it as both physically and mentally tough.
Alcaraz revealed he had not played on clay since the last Roland Garros. In early training he told his team it was “time to get dirty socks”.
Report via AFP, published 2026. Filmogaz.com edited this summary for clarity.
