Carlos Alcaraz shares a laugh with Alexander Bublik after Monte Carlo Masters match
Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Bublik shared a laugh at the net following their quarterfinal clash at the Monte Carlo Masters. Alcaraz secured his 300th career win with a 6-3, 6-0 victory over Bublik, moving on to defend his title in Monte Carlo. This was their first ever matchup, despite both players being ranked inside the top 10 this season.
After playing Alcaraz on clay for the first time, Bublik had something to say to the world number one when they met at the net. Alexander Bublik jokes about facing Carlos Alcaraz in less-than-ideal conditions Photo by Clicks Images/Getty Images Bublik has had a strong season, picking up five titles, reaching the quarterfinals of the French Open and breaking into the top 10 for the first time. Even though he’s had some success on clay, including two titles and a Roland Garros quarterfinal, Bublik still joked with Alcaraz that their match took place in his “worst conditions possible.
” Alcaraz replied that he was looking forward to a potential meeting on grass, with both players sharing a laugh at the net. Carlos Alcaraz passes Lleyton Hewitt in record books after Monte Carlo semifinal berth In addition to reaching 300 career wins, Alcaraz has also moved past former world number one Lleyton Hewitt in a separate milestone. According to OptaAce, Alcaraz has now set the record for the most Masters 1000 semifinals before turning 23, surpassing Hewitt.
This run marks his 14th appearance in a Masters 1000 semifinal, placing him behind only Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic on that list. With only the Madrid Open left before he turns 23, Alcaraz won’t have enough tournaments left to catch Djokovic’s total by then. Of his previous 13 Masters 1000 semifinal appearances, he’s converted eight into titles.
Next up is Valentin Vacherot of Monaco—a first-time matchup for both players—as Alcaraz continues his bid to repeat as champion in Monte Carlo. Read more: Monte Carlo Masters prize money breakdown: How much do the winners get? Sinner coach reveals key change after US Open loss to Alcaraz Zverev reveals ‘most annoying’ rival ahead of Monte Carlo semi-final