FAA standing in the way of Alcaraz in Monte Carlo

Felix Auger-Aliassime hopes to be the barrier to the first career win at the Monte Carlo Masters for Carlos Alcaraz.

The Canadian based in the principality is waiting in the second round for Spain’s former world No. 1, who lost the only match he played here two years ago.

Alcaraz went out in the 2022 second round to Sebastian Korda and did not compete last year due to injury.

FAA has an equally modest record, failing to advance out of the second round.

But the Canadian cannot hide his optimism at a possible turnaround in his fortunes at one of the premier venues for European clay.

“Let’s say it’s not the Masters 1000 where I’ve had my best results. I think I’ve been at least in the quarter-finals. final in almost all the Masters except this one. 

Auger-Aliassime has not posted a victory at the tournament in five years.

“Although I train and live here, I haven’t been feeling at home.” 

He is particularly keen to improve his 3-2 head to head in the series with 20-year-old Spaniard Alcaraz, who has won their previous two meetings. 

“Carlos is a complicated player. He may have grown up on clay, but he won Wimbledon before getting to play Roland Garros. 

“He is dangerous on any type of court, and obviously on clay there will be a physical component. He moves wonderfully, he does everything really well.”

The Canadian added; “I’m going to need my best tennis, otherwise I won’t have any options. 

“I think I can do it, I have been training well and working on various details. “I am convinced that I can play a good match.”