Test results show Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic advancing to the last 16 at Roland Garros, setting up a clash for the championship. Both men reached this stage through very different paths. A rising star from Murcia defeated Canadian Denis Shapovalov with ease, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2, while the Serbian overcame Alexander Davidovic in straight sets, 7-6 (4), 7-6 (5), 6-2.
Alcaraz opened his campaign at the Philippe Chatrier with a confident night session performance, maintaining pressure on his opponent throughout. The youngster showed speed, touch, and relentless defense, sealing the first set in 37 minutes and allowing Shapovalov only a single game for a confident, almost flawless start. The Canadian fought hard and managed to avoid a bagel, but the momentum clearly belonged to Alcaraz in that encounter.
Musetti, next opponent
The Canadian competitor is known for powerful forehand and a high-velocity serve, tallying more than 2,400 career aces. He did not back down from the challenge and delivered a double-break response in the second set, briefly shifting the momentum to 4-1. Yet Alcaraz steadied, reversed the run, and captured five consecutive games to seize the second set and push the match toward a decisive third. The world number one demonstrated composure and precision in closing out the affair in just over two hours, affirming his status with a convincing win.
Alcaraz is set to face his next challenge on Saturday, meeting Lorenzo Musetti in the round of 16. Musetti dispatched Cameron Norrie with scores of 6-1, 6-2, 6-4, in a display of Italian grit. The matchup will be a rematch of a previous encounter in Hamburg last year, where Musetti edged Norrie 6-4, 6-7 (6), 6-4. The clash promises an intriguing balance of youth, speed, and tactical craft as both players seek a place in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros.
As the tournament progresses, Alcaraz continues to exhibit the form that has made him a dominant force on clay. His performances highlight a blend of aggressive shotmaking and disciplined defense, enabling him to navigate early rounds with minimal slips and maintain momentum into the second week of the event. The French national audience and international fans alike have watched him rise to the occasion, delivering high-quality tennis that blends power with precision. The upcoming match against Musetti is poised to test endurance, strategy, and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise. The narrative at Roland Garros remains vibrant as these two rising stars compete for a coveted Grand Slam position and a potential title run this season. (Roland Garros match report)