The surface is perfect for real tennis": Alcaraz impressed by the new courts at the Rolex Paris Masters
The slowed-down courts at the Rolex Paris Masters are a game-changer for Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard sees this configuration as an opportunity to produce spectacular tennis and finally conquer the tournament.
In four appearances at the Rolex Paris Masters, Carlos Alcaraz has never done better than a quarter-final in 2022. Last year, the Spaniard fell victim to a Ugo Humbert who was transcendent at Bercy. Two years ago, it was Roman Safiullin who claimed the scalp of the six-time Grand Slam winner.
This season, Alcaraz arrives with the status of world No. 1, but also with an impressive ongoing streak: nine finals played in his last nine tournaments.
He will therefore be expected by the Paris La Défense Arena crowd, with his opening match scheduled against Cameron Norrie or Sebastian Baez.
Speaking to journalists this Saturday, Alcaraz was asked about the slowing down of the Parisian surface, which could give him an extra advantage:
"It's really different compared to last year. It's much slower, but I like it. We can see real tennis, with long rallies, not just serves and short points. For me, it's a very good speed. I've always said that I prefer slower courts.
Paris-Bercy
Features - Saudi Arabia, injuries, war, and business: the fascinating underbelly of tennis revealed by TennisTemple
Tennis, Saudi Arabia’s new playground
The impact of the war on tennis in Ukraine: financial aid, foundations, governing bodies and all‑round headaches
The outfit wars: how clothing contracts dominate the tennis business