Defending Champion’s Delight at Roland-Garros
PARIS (AP) — Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz delighted the crowd at Roland-Garros after his second-round victory on Wednesday. The 22-year-old Spaniard secured a win over Hungarian player Fabian Marozsan with a scoreline of 6-1, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, which set the stage for an unexpected encore that fans have been eager for.
Alcaraz’s Musical Moment
Following a short post-match interview with tennis legend Mats Wilander on the iconic Court Philippe-Chatrier, Alcaraz seized the moment to fulfill a longtime wish: to sing with the audience.
“One thing, one thing. I always wanted to do that. I hope everyone follows me,”
Alcaraz announced to an excited audience.
He then broke into song, leading the crowd in a familiar chant popular at the tournament, inspired by a traditional Spanish paso doble. The infectious refrain, often echoed during matches, was met with enthusiastic participation from the crowd, where they joined in for the emphatic ending featuring an “Olé.” Alcaraz, buoyed by the applause, high-fived Wilander as they exited the court together.
Reflections on Performance
Reflecting on his decision to perform, Alcaraz noted that he had contemplated this moment since last year’s tournament but hadn’t managed to follow through. This time, there was no hesitation; his confidence was palpable as he sang with clarity and charm.
In terms of tennis performance, Alcaraz is also hitting all the right notes on the clay courts, having won 29 of his last 31 matches on this surface. His only two losses included a thrilling encounter against Novak Djokovic at the gold medal showdown during the previous summer’s Olympics, held at the same venue as today’s tournament.
“I just love it here and had some really great moments,”
Alcaraz reflected, emphasizing his connection to the iconic French court.
“I hope people when they leave the court, they leave with a smile.”
Next, he will encounter unseeded Damir Dzumhur in the upcoming third round.
