“Probably one of the best matches I played so far in terms of level, maintain all the level during the whole match. So I’m just really proud about that,” Carlos Alcaraz reflected after his triumphant run at the Italian Open, his first clay-court title of the season after an injury forced him to skip his home Masters. That commanding win over local hero Jannik Sinner boosted his clay-court tally to eight titles, including Roland Garros and other Masters. But can he hit double-digit Slam glory? Well, towering American star Reilly Opelka, after reaching the second round in Paris, made headlines by boldly backing Alcaraz for Spanish greatness. Want to know his prediction about the Spaniard?
Australian Rinky Hijikata started strong against big-serving American ace Reilly Opelka, dominating the first set 6-1 in just 18 minutes. However, the momentum shifted as Opelka, despite an apparent knee injury and heavy strapping on his left leg, found his rhythm and unleashed his towering 211 cm frame to dictate play. He rallied back to claim a gritty 1-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-6(3) victory, but the 27-year-old didn’t just make headlines for his comeback win; he equally stunned fans with two bold declarations: one about his journey at this year’s Roland Garros, and another about Carlos Alcaraz’s future dominance.
Speaking with American tennis great John Isner on Bleacher Report’s “Nothing Major Podcast,” set from France, Reilly Opelka didn’t hold back when discussing Carlos Alcaraz’s future at Roland Garros. The American confidently shared his prediction that Alcaraz could be on track for historic success. “I think he could all right well, that’s or double-digit Wimbledon wins, you know, for sure,” he said, emphasizing the Spaniard’s potential to dominate the clay courts or win double-digit glory for years to come.
However, Opelka also issued a cautionary take later. While acknowledging Alcaraz’s young age, he explained how crucial each Roland Garros is at this stage in his career. “Carlos is so young still. I know he just turned 22, it’s crazy. But the thing is. if he doesn’t – if he like misses this year and say he doesn’t win, his chances of that happening go down like massive. Like if you have … if you’re turning 24 years old with only two French Opens you’re probably not going to get 10 of them by the time you retire,” he added. But the best twist was yet to come…
Tennis – French Open – Roland Garros, Paris, France – June 9, 2024 Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz celebrates with the trophy after winning the men’s singles final against Germany’s Alexander Zverev REUTERS/Lisi Niesner
The conversation took a humorous and self-deprecating turn when Isner asked Opelka about his chances at this year’s French Open. Reilly Opelka responded without any hesitation, “Zero,” before going on to explain the reason. He faces Argentine Mariano Navone next, a relatively unknown name in the ATP circuit. “I mean yeah I’m playing Navone, a guy that you’ve never heard of that you know you don’t really even know. I’m the underdog, I’m definitely the underdog. There it’s not a good sign,” he said.
Even as Isner tried to encourage him, the American ace doubled down on his answer. “I said ‘Zero’. I stand by none,” he reaffirmed, showing his candid nature and lack of illusions about his clay court prospects this year. And while Opelka remains raw and realistic about his chances, his words highlight the growing anticipation surrounding Alcaraz, who just eased past his 1st-round opponent and looks primed to defend his title with relentless energy.
Carlos Alcaraz sends a clear message moving into Roland Garros R2
Carlos Alcaraz sent a crystal clear message on Match Day 1 that he remains the top contender at Roland Garros. The defending champion opened his campaign with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Giulio Zeppieri, showcasing his trademark flair and intensity. With this victory, Alcaraz has now won 16 of his 17 tour-level matches on clay in 2025, continuing a dominant run on the surface.
Reflecting on his performance, the second-ranked acknowledged the challenge of opening-round matches at GS, especially as the defending champion. “It was really, really solid,” Alcaraz said. “The first round of the tournament is never easy, coming here as the defending champion could be even tougher. But I just started pretty well, and kept my good pace during the whole match. I tried to be focused on my game, to get a good rhythm. I’m just really proud of my start here at Roland Garros, where I was really excited to play my first match this year.”
Since May of last year, the Spaniard has compiled a remarkable 28-2 record on clay courts. His 2025 season has included standout titles in Monte Carlo and Rome, where he bested top seed Jannik Sinner in the final, extending his lead in their intense H2H rivalry to 7-4.
Next, the 5-time GS winner will face Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan in the 2nd round. With their H2H tied at 1-1, the match promises to be an intriguing battle as the 22-year-old aims to continue his quest to become the 1st man since Rafael Nadal (2019–20) to defend the French Open title successfully. Can mount the title defense this year, as ? Chime in with your thoughts below!
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