Alcaraz Defends Barcelona Title, Powers Past Tsitsipas

The dream Barcelona showdown between defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas turned out to be a one-sided affair as the teen rolled to a 6-3, 6-4 overpowering win.

“It is incredible,” Alcaraz said to the ATP. “To feel this energy and lift the trophy in Barcelona in front of my family and friends, and most members of my team are here as well. Playing this level and to lift the trophy in front of them is a good feeling for me.”

Alcaraz finished the event without dropping a set in this his 2023 European clay debut. The 19-year-old collected his 9th career title in his 12th final while the Greek falls for a third time in this title match.

In the contest, Alcaraz was broken once, broke serve three times and lost just ten total points on serve. And the drop shots were key, as well.

Tsitsipas actually came out ahead early snagging a break for 2-1. But the lead didn’t last long. Alcaraz got back won the last four games from 3-2 down in the first. Then broke for 3-2 in the second. Tsitsipas never saw a break point in the second. Alcaraz finished with four love holds.

“Me and my team were talking before the match about staying relaxed,” said Alcaraz. “To want to play the tough moments. Staying relaxed is the most important part for me. To forget the mistakes, everything and be myself on court. Not to think about all the people watching, but just me, the court, the racquet and the final.”

Alcaraz improves to 23-2 on the season. He now leads Tsitsipas 4-0 and heads into the Madrid Masters as the man to beat in yet another title defense. Is he the new French Open favorite? Arguably, he is.