Carlos Alcaraz is the undisputed favorite heading into the 2026 French Open, and for good reason. The 23-year-old Spaniard has been dominant on clay this season, winning three consecutive clay-court titles and dropping just one set in the process. His combination of raw power, defensive brilliance, and tactical intelligence has drawn comparisons to the great Rafael Nadal, and he now has a chance to match Nadal's record of three consecutive French Open titles.
Alcaraz's evolution as a player has been remarkable to witness. His serve has become one of the best in the sport, averaging 127 mph on first serves, and his ability to construct points from the baseline is unmatched on the current tour. His forehand, in particular, has been described by coaches as a "weapon of mass destruction" on clay, generating incredible topspin that pushes opponents deep behind the baseline.
The competition, however, will be fierce. Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and a resurgent Daniil Medvedev all pose serious threats. The depth of the men's game is at an all-time high, and any lapse in concentration could prove costly. But with his current form and confidence, Alcaraz appears ready to write another chapter in his already legendary career.