Paris, France – Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has advanced to the French Open final for the second consecutive year, albeit not in the manner he would have wished. His semi-final opponent, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, was forced to retire due to a left thigh injury in the fourth set, with Alcaraz leading 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-0, 2-0.
A Tense Opening Battle
The semi-final clash on Court Philippe Chatrier began as a tightly contested affair. Musetti, the Italian eighth seed, displayed impressive form, taking the first set 6-4. He successfully thwarted Alcaraz’s attempts to break his serve and capitalized on a crucial break opportunity in the tenth game. Alcaraz, at times visibly frustrated, even kicked his bench during the second set as he struggled to find his rhythm against Musetti’s varied game.
The second set continued to be a close battle. Both players exchanged breaks, but Alcaraz ultimately managed to force a tie-break. In the decisive tie-break, the Spaniard elevated his game, taking control and eventually leveling the match at one set all. This marked a turning point in the encounter.
Musetti’s Injury and Alcaraz’s Dominance
Following the intensity of the first two sets, the match took a dramatic turn in the third. Alcaraz, now playing with renewed confidence and aggression, completely dominated. He dished out a bagel, winning the set 6-0 in just 22 minutes. During this set, Musetti began to show signs of discomfort, receiving medical treatment for a left thigh issue at 0-5 down.
Despite the treatment, Musetti’s movement was clearly hindered. After Alcaraz broke his serve to go up 2-0 in the fourth set, the Italian regretfully walked to the net and conceded the match.
Alcaraz’s Reaction and Road to the Final
Carlos Alcaraz expressed his sympathy for his opponent, stating, “It’s never great to go through or win a match when it’s like this. Lorenzo is a great player, he has had an incredible clay-court season. I wish him all the best, a quick recovery, and that he’ll be back soon.”
The 22-year-old Spaniard now prepares for his fifth Grand Slam final and his second consecutive French Open final. He will face either world number one Jannik Sinner or 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in Sunday’s showpiece event. Alcaraz stated he would be watching the second semi-final closely to prepare his tactics.
