Carlos Alcaraz Outlasts Alexander Zverev to Win 2024 French Open

​Carlos Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spaniard tennis sensation, made history at the 2024 French Open at Roland Garros with his 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 victory in the final over German Alexander Zverev. With the victory, Alcaraz won his third career grand slam and became the youngest male player to win a grand slam on all three surfaces: grass (Wimbledon), hard courts (US Open), and clay (French Open). He's 3-0 in grand slam finals, and also the youngest man to win the French Open since Rafael Nadal won his third of 14 titles at Roland Garros in 2007.

Zverev, who was playing in his first grand slam final since losing to Dominic Thiem in the 2020 US Open, appeared on the verge of victory after claiming a 2-1 set lead, but Alcaraz stormed back in the fourth set, showcasing his impressive forehand and drop shot capabilities. Zverev, likely feeling the pressure, made a series of unforced errors in the fourth set and couldn't keep up with Alcaraz in the fifth and deciding set.

Zverev had a tough path to the final, having to overcome a one-set deficit to beat Casper Ruud in a grueling five-set semi-final. He also played a tough five-set match against Tallon Griekspoor. Alcaraz, meanwhile, beat 2024 Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner in five sets in the semifinal, becoming the first male French Open champion in the Open Era to win his last two matches in five sets.

Robert Palley

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