Alcaraz Set to Clash with Marozsan, Swiatek to Battle Raducanu

PARIS: Carlos Alcaraz began his French Open title defense impressively, securing a straight-sets victory against Giulio Zeppieri. Meanwhile, Iga Swiatek smoothly defeated Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova in the opening round at Roland Garros on Sunday.

Alcaraz overcame Italian Zeppieri with a score of 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, advancing to the second round, where he is slated to compete against Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan.

The defending champion promptly established control, maintaining concentration throughout the match to clinch a decisive win.

“It was truly a steady performance. The first round of a Grand Slam is always challenging, particularly arriving as the defending champion,” Alcaraz commented. “I initiated well and sustained a good rhythm during the match. I aimed to remain focused and find a solid pace. I am genuinely pleased with my start here at Roland Garros.”

In women’s play, Poland’s Swiatek also commenced her title defense with a confident 6-3, 6-3 triumph over Sramkova, displaying indications of regaining peak form following a year without securing a title.

Swiatek, who has encountered obstacles since her French Open victory in 2024, adopted an aggressive approach, breaking her opponent’s serve four times during the match.

“I recognized the necessity to maintain proactivity and capitalize on my strengths. I am content with my performance—it was a consistent match,” Swiatek remarked post-win.

Swiatek’s next challenge will be against former US Open champion Emma Raducanu, who edged out China’s Wang Xinyu with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 in a fiercely contested match.