"A phenomenon that has been criticized too much," Musetti defends Alcaraz
Lorenzo Musetti will not play his second Masters 1000 final. Defeated at this stage of the competition by Carlos Alcaraz in Monte-Carlo, the Italian fell again to the Spaniard, this time in the semifinals in Rome (6-3, 7-6).
This marks the fifth loss in six encounters for the world No. 9 against Alcaraz since the start of his career. Present at the press conference after his defeat, the 23-year-old player was asked about the criticism surrounding the world No. 3.
"Carlos is a phenomenon who has been criticized too much. Just look at his results—there’s not much negative to say or criticize. Today (Friday), we didn’t play our best tennis, but he’s a player with very few weaknesses.
He doesn’t have Zverev’s serve, but he’s very complete. He works on his mental strength, but we’re talking about small details—that’s what makes the difference at this level. The best Carlos on clay is the best player on the tour.
Roland-Garros is coming, and five-set matches are obviously more physical, but I feel good. I’ve always enjoyed playing in that format, and I hope I can make it happen this year at Roland-Garros.
Apart from Jannik (Sinner), Carlos (Alcaraz), and Jack (Draper), I’ve beaten all the other players. I know that to take the next step, I have to beat these kinds of players," Musetti told *Punto De Break*.
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