Monte-Carlo Masters: Alcaraz Defeats Cerundolo

Carlos Alcaraz defeats Francisco Cerundolo 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 to secure his first-ever win at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Alcaraz adjusts his strategy mid-match and next faces German player Daniel Altmaier.

Alcaraz Secures First-Ever Win at Monte-Carlo Masters

Carlos Alcaraz bounced back from a slow start to secure his first-ever win at the Monte-Carlo Masters, defeating Francisco Cerundolo 3-6, 6-0, 6-1. The 21-year-old Spanish world No. 2 struggled to find his rhythm in the opening set, succumbing to Cerundolo's energetic play.

Alcaraz Adjusts to Claim Victory

After being outmaneuvered in the first set, Alcaraz regrouped and dominated the second set, winning it 6-0. He continued his resurgence in the third set, ultimately prevailing 6-1. This win marked Alcaraz's successful return to clay after a mixed American tour, where he reached the semifinals in Indian Wells but suffered an early exit in Miami.

Breakthrough for Alcaraz in Monte Carlo

The victory was a significant milestone for Alcaraz, who had previously been defeated by Sebastian Korda in the 2022 Monte Carlo tournament. Alcaraz's ability to adapt and overcome a challenging start against Cerundolo showcased his growth as a player and his determination to succeed on the ATP Tour.

Alcaraz's Turnaround

After gaining an early break, Carlos Alcaraz gave up four games in a row, allowing Francisco Cerundolo to take the set. However, Alcaraz regrouped and dominated the next two sets, dropping just a single game in a convincing 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 win. The match lasted one hour and 37 minutes.

Alcaraz's Post-Match Insights

Reflecting on his performance, Alcaraz acknowledged his slow start. “I didn't start well,” he said. “I made a lot of mistakes and I let him play inside the court, dominating the points.” Alcaraz adjusted his strategy, opting to play more aggressively and take control of the points. “I just knew that I had to do something else, play more aggressively, and play my own tennis: drop shots, going to the net and show more aggression,” he explained.

Alcaraz d. Cerundolo 3-6 6-0 6-1

Carlos gets his first-ever win in Monte Carlo

He’s now won 13 of his last 14 matches on clay

After losing the 1st set, his response was brutal.. he won 12 of the last 13 games

✅1st Monte Carlo R16

His level in the last 2 sets was scary

🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/VtAvsJsKK7

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) April 9, 2025

Key Change in Strategy

Alcaraz identified his return game as a crucial factor in his turnaround. “The most important change was the return, I tried to return closer to the line and push him,” he said. This tactical adjustment allowed Alcaraz to gain momentum and ultimately secure the win.

Next Opponent: Daniel Altmaier

Alcaraz's next challenge will be against German player Daniel Altmaier, who defeated Richard Gasquet 7-5, 5-7, 6-2. Gasquet, who is retiring from the circuit after the French Open, received a warm reception from the crowd, who have been watching him since his tournament debut as a 15-year-old wildcard in 2002.

Gasquet reflected on his illustrious career, which spans almost 40 years. “I started with (Andre) Agassi and I'll finish with Alcaraz,” he said. “It's a gap of almost 40 years, it's enormous.” Gasquet's farewell to the Monte Carlo tournament marks the end of an era, with Alcaraz and other younger players emerging as new stars on the ATP Tour.