Carlos Alcaraz 'makes life difficult for himself' despite being the favourite for Roland-Garros glory at French Open, says Tim Henman
Updated 31/05/2025 at 11:20 GMT+1
Carlos Alcaraz was given a sterner test than many expected against Bosnian Damir Dzumhur in the third round of the French Open, prevailing in four sets after an impressive resurgence from the underdog. And Tim Henman gave his verdict on Alcaraz's performance on TNT Sports' Courtside, pointing out that conserving energy early on at Grand Slams can be an important factor.
Highlights: Alcaraz recovers to beat Dzumhur in four sets
Video credit: TNT Sports
Tim Henman said Carlos Alcaraz "makes life difficult for himself" against less fancied opposition after the French Open second seed beat Damir Dzumhur in four sets.
The Spaniard looked in control and set for a comfortable victory after taking the first two sets, but he allowed world No. 69 Dzumhur back into the match with a below-par third set.
And Henman, speaking on TNT Sports' Courtside show, suggested there is room for improvement from Alcaraz in the early rounds.
"For me that's a little bit of a common theme," Henman said. "When he's focused and his shot selection is good, he dominates proceedings, and when you see the first two sets, 6-1 6-3, you think this is going to be one-way traffic.
"But when he loses concentration in the third set, he makes life difficult for himself.
"You always felt he would find a way to come through but in these early stages of the slams, when you're playing best of five set matches, you want to conserve as much energy as possible, so that when you get into the latter stages against some tougher opponents, you've still got those full tanks of energy.
"But he'll be pleased and slightly relieved to get through that match."
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Courier 'could not be more torn about' Alcaraz's 'unbelievably aggressive mindset'
Video credit: TNT Sports
While the focus was on Alcaraz, former British No. 1 Anne Keothavong singled out Dzumhur for praise given the circumstances of the match.
"We also have to credit his opponent, Dzumhur, he played great," she said.
"He found a way back into the match to make it more competitive, and when you're the overwhelming underdog that's a difficult situation to be in against the tournament favourite.
"You're playing your part in what will probably be a fantastic story for Carlos Alcaraz here at Roland Garros."
Alcaraz will meet American Ben Shelton in the fourth round at Roland Garros, after the latter beat Italian Matteo Gigante in straight sets.
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- Courier 'could not be more torn about' Alcaraz's 'aggressive' style
How to watch and stream the 2025 French Open?
You can watch all the action from the 2025 French Open live in the UK on TNT Sports and discovery+.
As well as all the live coverage from around Roland-Garros, there will be expert analysis from on-site and in the studio.
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