Alcaraz Powers Past Musetti to Win First Monte Carlo Masters Title
Carlos Alcaraz marked a triumphant return to form on Sunday, rallying from a set down to defeat Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 3-6, 6-1, 6-0 and win his first-ever Monte Carlo Masters title. The victory is his most significant since capturing the Wimbledon crown last year and serves as a powerful statement ahead of his Roland Garros title defense next month.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, who has already earned a reputation for resilience and flair on the court, weathered a tough start in the final at Court Rainier III, which sits high above the Mediterranean coastline. On a cool, overcast afternoon, Alcaraz struggled early, his forehand producing a string of unforced errors that allowed Musetti to grab the opening set with confidence.
Musetti, showcasing his touch and variety, broke Alcaraz’s serve twice and took full advantage of a hesitant opponent. For a brief moment, it looked as though the Italian might be on his way to the biggest title of his career.
But Alcaraz had other plans.
“I’m really happy to win Monte Carlo for the first time,” he said after the match. “It’s been a tough month for me, so seeing all the hard work pay off this week really means a lot.”
The second set saw a completely different Alcaraz. Dialing in his shots and finding rhythm from the baseline, he broke Musetti twice and reeled off five games in a row, swinging the match firmly in his favor. With renewed confidence and control, the Spaniard began dictating play, pushing his opponent to the limits.
Musetti, who had battled through several grueling matches earlier in the tournament, began to show signs of fatigue. Despite his strong court sense, he couldn’t keep up with Alcaraz’s rising pace and relentless pressure.
By the time the third set began, the momentum had fully shifted. Alcaraz broke serve immediately and surged to a 3-0 lead. Musetti required a medical timeout for treatment on his thigh, but it did little to halt Alcaraz’s charge. The Spaniard stayed locked in, conceding just eight points in the final set as he cruised to victory.
“It’s not the way I would’ve liked to win, seeing Lorenzo struggle,” Alcaraz said with humility. “He had a great week and played some incredible tennis. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and he recovers quickly.”
The win in Monte Carlo marks Alcaraz’s sixth ATP Masters 1000 title and the 10th major trophy of his career, including four Grand Slam victories. It also propels him past Alexander Zverev in the rankings, moving him up to world number two. He now leads the 2025 ATP Race standings ahead of rival Jannik Sinner.
Sinner, who recently completed a three-month suspension for a doping violation, was cleared to return to official ATP training on the same day Alcaraz lifted the Monte Carlo trophy.
Alcaraz now turns his focus to the Barcelona Open, where he’s set to face a qualifier in the opening round. With clay season in full swing, all eyes will be on the young star as he builds toward defending his French Open crown in late May.
