Carlos Alcaraz is set to battle Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the Monte-Carlo Masters semi-final on Saturday, despite their close friendship and a wedding invitation extended to Alcaraz. Emphasizing his competitive edge, Alcaraz stated: “there are no friends” once he’s on court.
Coming into this tournament, Alcaraz faced a unique challenge: the former world No. 1 had never claimed victory at Monte-Carlo, losing his first match in 2022 and missing the past editions due to injuries.
Now, however, he’s powered through to the semi-finals after securing three wins in Monaco.
The upcoming match pits Alcaraz against someone quite familiar, Davidovich Fokina, although they’ve only officially clashed once before—Alcaraz triumphed in their 2023 Barcelona Open encounter. Despite their well-established off-court rapport and shared history, including with Alcaraz’s brother, Carlos remains focused on the game.
“Yeah, he invited me to his wedding. He’s a friend. We have seen each other for a long time already,” Alcaraz admitted regarding Davidovich Fokina.
“He used to play with my older brother when they were younger, as well. I know him pretty well. I’ve played against him a few times. Practised a lot.”
Alcaraz is aware that playing a good friend can be tough, but when it’s match time, expect him to showcase an unforgiving side in pursuit of victory.
Alcaraz is well aware that beating his pal won’t be an easy feat. “So it’s going to be interesting. It’s not gonna be easy, never easy playing against a friend, but, you know, this is tennis. Once you step on the court, there are no friends,” he said, cracking a smile.
Davidovich Fokina had an outstanding run in Monte-Carlo last year when he defeated Djokovic and proceeded to the final. Alcaraz expects their match to be quite a challenge.
The young Spaniard continued, “So I have to go for it. There is no time to be tired, to be afraid. I will try to show a good tennis, and let’s see. It’s going to be my first semi-final here in Monte-Carlo. I think it is his second or third time he’s gonna play in the semi-final here.”
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Davidovich Fokina is no stranger to the Monte-Carlo semi-finals and has a special connection with this tournament.
Alcaraz added, “I know this is a tournament he loves playing, and I think he feels really comfortable playing here in Monte-Carlo. I think he’s been playing good tennis lately. I think it’s going to be a really interesting match to watch, to play. I’m excited.
“I think for my health and my team’s health, it is important to play the best points a little bit earlier.”