Alcaraz primed for title defence

“It feels great to be back here in Paris, in Roland-Garros," he said. It reminds me a lot from last year, living again that feeling that I had last year, it's great, having the practices here.”

“I'm just trying to get ready as soon as possible and to have a great level to start the tournament.”

The four-time major winner got in the mood for a title defence by lifting trophies in Monte-Carlo and Rome, added to a runner-up showing in Barcelona. No wonder the Spaniard was in high spirits as he joined the draw ceremony at Roland-Garros on Thursday.

The 22-year-old is a dedicated tennis fan and took a moment to scan the roster.

“I had a long look on the draw, but it wasn't at my draw, honestly. I just saw the first round and the second round obviously,” he explained.

“I don't really look that far for my side. I just have a global view of the draw, because I know in the Grand Slams there are always really great matches in the first rounds. I'm just curious to see what first round is gonna happen and to be able to watch it. I just love to watch the draws.”

Alcaraz was initially drawn against 35-year-old Kei Nishikori in the first round, but the subsequent withdrawal of the former world No.4 opened the door to qualifier Giulio Zeppieri, the world No.306 from Italy.

During Friday's press conference Alcaraz was questioned on the strength and depth of men’s tennis, and the world No.2 is wary of underestimating his rivals further down the rankings.

“I think in general, the top 20, 25, 30, they have really high level of tennis. We could see it right now, for example, (Jakub) Mensik is 20, 21 (world No.19) and he won Miami. That means how strong is the top 30 right now,” he said.

“Ten years ago, the top 10 was much stronger than now, could be, but in general, the top 30 I think right now is really, really strong.

“We have a really open draw that everyone can make really good results or even win the tournament, so I think that's really good for tennis.”