Paris: Carlos Alcaraz added another feather to his growing cap as the defending champion surged into the third round of Roland Garros 2025 with a commanding four-set win over World No. 56 Fabian Marozsan.
The 21-year-old Spaniard not only moved a step closer to defending his title but also achieved a remarkable personal milestone—becoming the second-fastest man to notch up 20 match wins at Roland Garros in the Open Era since 2000. He reached the landmark in just 23 matches, trailing only Rafael Nadal, the undisputed king of clay.
Alcaraz’s 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 victory was a showcase of mental resilience and tactical brilliance. Under the closed roof of Court Philippe Chatrier—forced by mid-match rain—the match briefly tilted in favour of Marozsan.
The Hungarian, who stunned Alcaraz in Rome last year, used his touch and variety to snatch the second set with a flurry of drop shots and clever net play. But Alcaraz responded with characteristic flair, turning up the tempo in the third and fourth sets and leaving the crowd in awe with his athleticism and shot-making.
On the women’s side, it was a day of gritty determination and emotional strength for Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, who reached the third round of Roland Garros for the 10th time in her career.
