2024 French Open (Men's Singles): Carlos Alcaraz creates history by defeating Alexander Zverev

Carlos Alcaraz won his first Roland Garros title in the 2024 French Open defeating Alexander Zverev in a 5-set thriller. Alcaraz wins the game by (6-3),(2-6),(5-7),(6-1),(6-2). Alcaraz's prowess was visible through his monumental comeback after losing the second and the third set. With this win, Carlos Alcaraz becomes the youngest champion to win championships in three courts defeating Rafael Nadal who previously held this record.

In the post-presentation of the 2024 French Open, Alcaraz addresses the crowd by congratulating Alexander Zverev.He said, “First of all I want to congratulate Sasha (Zverev). I know about everything you have been through over the past year and I know how much of a warrior you are. I wish you all the best for the future.”

He then concludes by appreciating his team and the crowd, 

“I want to thank my team who has been a big part of this journey. I know we say we are a team but we are one family,”

“The crowd has been great since the first match. Not only in the matches but also in the practice sessions as well. You guys made me feel right at home. I will see you all soon,” concluded Alcaraz.

Zverev addresses the crowd congratulating Carlos Alcaraz,

" Congratulations Carlos (Alcaraz). Winning three different slams on three different courts at 21 years old is amazing. You are already a hall of famer and this is not going to be your final trophy at this court,”

He concluded by saying “The atmosphere has been amazing and this is one of my favourite courts on the tour and I’ll be back next year,"

Read more: Youngest Grand Slam Champion (Men) | Top 10 List

SET ANALYSIS

FIRST SET: Alcaraz 6-3 Zverev*

Carlos Alcaraz won the opening set 6-3 against Alexander Zverev. Despite an opening exchange of breaks, Alcaraz quickly capitalized on Zverev's blunders, scoring two break points to take a 4-2 lead. The Spaniard's aggressive playing style and fast drop shots regularly challenged Zverev, who was trying to find his rhythm. Alcaraz's powerful forehand shots and effective play through the netting enabled him to frequently retain his serve.

At 5-3, Alcaraz won convincingly with a volley across the court, demonstrating his superior court coverage and tactical ability. Alcaraz's momentum kept him in charge throughout the contest. He advanced to the second set with a 60-3 win-loss record after winning the first Zverev managed to save several break points, but couldn’t maintain consistency. 

SECOND SET: Alcaraz 2-6 Zverev*

Alexander Zverev won the second set, 6-2, over Carlos Alcaraz. Despite Alcaraz's early dominance and 2-1 lead, Zverev regained his rhythm. Zverev kept Alcaraz on the defensive with strong serves and crisp volleys. Zverev broke Alcaraz's serve to go up 3-2, and he maintained his lead by winning critical rallies and securing a double break.

Alcaraz's trouble with consistency revealed his frustrations, which resulted in a key double fault, giving Zverev another break point. Zverev was confident in ending the set with an ace that led to a commanding net volley, demonstrating his tactical supremacy and laying the groundwork for an intriguing third set.

THIRD SET: Alcaraz 5-7 Zverev*

Alexander Zverev overcame an early deficit to defeat Alcaraz 7-5 in the final set. Alcaraz, who led 5-2 at the time, demonstrated his power with tactical volleys. However, it was Zverev's resilience that paid off, as he saved multiple break points and capitalized on Alcaraz's blunders after taking an early lead in the set.

Zverev earned two break points to reclaim the lead at 6-5. Alcaraz's brave attempt to reclaim the set failed because of Zverev's calmness in vital situations Zverev's critical ace and crisp volley drove him to the set win, setting up an exciting finish.

FOURTH SET: Alcaraz* 6-1 Zverev

Carlos Alcaraz defeated Alexander Zverev 6-1, reversing the momentum. Alcaraz broke Zverev's serve twice early on, taking advantage of Zverev's inconsistent play. Despite a lengthy medical stoppage for a hamstring injury, Alcaraz dominated the set, striking crisp wins and forcing Zverev to make more errors.

Zverev was successful in bouncing back after a breakpoint. But Alcaraz's strong forehands and excellent net play made him struggle to maintain momentum. Alcaraz was resilient under pressure, particularly at breakpoints, allowing him to finish out the set with ease. Alcaraz's strong effort paved the way for a crucial fifth set in this thrilling final.

FIFTH SET: Alcaraz* 6-2 Zverev

Carlos Alcaraz defeated Alexander Zverev 6-2 in a dramatic final set at the 2024 French Open. Zverev started strong and won the first game. Alcaraz's attack was persistent, and it was his perseverance that eventually turned the tide. Alcaraz broke Zverev's serve early on, leading 3-1. 

Alcaraz kept his cool by saving multiple break points and recovering from 0-30 twice. Zverev struggled to maintain consistency, allowing Alcaraz to gain a critical double break. Serving for the championship at 5-2 Alcaraz used his characteristic strong groundstroke to finish with a cross-court forehand winner. 

Read here: Iga Siwatek wins her fourth Roland Garros title; her third in a row

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