Carlos Alcaraz returns to the red dirt this week at the ATP Monte Carlo Masters 1000, looking to reset his season after a turbulent start to 2025. The 21-year-old Spaniard arrives in the Principality under scrutiny, with recent results falling short of expectations but with a significant opportunity to reclaim momentum.
The Monte Carlo tournament, running from April 6 to 13, marks the official launch of the European clay court swing. With a 64-player field that includes 56 direct entries and 8 byes, it remains one of only two Masters 1000 events played within a single week. The final draw will be revealed on Friday, April 4, at 17:00 CET, with Alcaraz expected to begin his campaign on Tuesday, April 8 or Wednesday, April 9.
Alcaraz missed last year’s Monte Carlo and Barcelona tournaments due to an elbow injury. As a result, he carries only 200 ATP points from the 2024 clay season. A title run in both events could earn him 1,500 points, which would be enough to overtake Alexander Zverev and move up to number two in the world rankings, narrowing the gap on the currently suspended Jannik Sinner.
However, his current form raises questions. Despite an early-season victory in Rotterdam, Alcaraz faltered at the Australian Open with a quarter-final loss to Novak Djokovic, then suffered surprising defeats to Jack Draper at Indian Wells and David Goffin in his opening match at the Miami Open.
Critics have pointed to his erratic shot selection and instinct-driven play as areas of concern. “I think many times I play by instinct in critical moments,” Alcaraz admitted. “That’s not always good. Perhaps I need to follow a strategy.”
The loss in Miami was particularly disappointing, especially given that Sinner was suspended and Zverev’s form had dipped. The path was wide open. However, the four-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one Tim Henman remains optimistic. “I don’t see it as a crisis,” Henman said. “It’s part of the journey. When he improves his shot selection, consistency will follow.”
Alcaraz has since returned to his roots, training at Real Murcia Club de Tenis and La Manga Club under the guidance of coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. Videos of intense clay sessions and fan interactions have surfaced on social media, showing a clear intent to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming grind.
He’ll face tough competition in Monte Carlo. Defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, world number one Novak Djokovic, and clay specialist Casper Ruud are all in the draw. The tournament offers €946,610 and 1,000 ranking points to the winner. Every round will demand physical and mental resilience, especially if Alcaraz lands a Tuesday start, which would require him to win five matches in as many days to lift the trophy.
With pressure mounting and Roland Garros on the horizon, Monte Carlo could be the turning point. The clay is familiar, and the stakes are enormous. For Carlos Alcaraz, the mission is clear: reset, rise, and reclaim the narrative.