The prestigious Masters 1000 de Monte Carlo kicks off on Sunday, April 6, 2025, marking the start of the clay season in the ATP circuit. With an intense schedule of 14 matches set for the day, tennis fans can expect an exciting mix of singles and doubles action at the Monte Carlo Country Club.
One of the highlights of the day is the return of Stefanos Tsitsipas, who partners with his brother Petros in the doubles draw. Tsitsipas, a two-time runner-up in Monte Carlo in 2021 and 2022, aims to make a strong impression as he starts his campaign on the clay courts. The duo faces a challenging match against the experienced pairing of Christian Harrison and Evan King.
Meanwhile, French veteran Richard Gasquet, making his last appearance at the tournament before retirement, is set to take on Italy's Matteo Arnaldi at 8 AM local time on Quadra Rainier III. Gasquet, a fan favorite, has had a storied career with 16 titles and will be looking to leave a lasting impression in this, his final Masters 1000 event before he bids farewell at Roland Garros.
Following this encounter, Australian Jordan Thompson will face off against the promising young French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who has been making waves in the tennis world with his powerful serve and aggressive playstyle. This match promises to be a clash of experience versus youth, with Thompson needing to navigate the challenges posed by the 21-year-old.
On Quadra des Princes, the action continues with Jan-Lennard Struff taking on local hero Valentin Vacherot, who has received a wildcard entry into the tournament. Struff, known for his aggressive baseline game, will have to contend with the home crowd supporting Vacherot, who is ranked 259th but is eager to make a mark on his home turf.
As the day progresses, Brazilian Marcelo Melo will step onto the court alongside German star Alexander Zverev, facing the British duo of Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool at 10:30 AM. Melo, 41, is a seasoned doubles player with 37 titles to his name, including two Grand Slams. The partnership with Zverev, the current world No. 3 in singles, has been fruitful, having reached the finals in Monte Carlo last year.
In the qualifying rounds, several matches are set to determine the final spots in the main draw. Notably, David Goffin, a former top 10 player, will meet Frenchman Corentin Moutet, while Serbian Dusan Lajovic, a finalist in 2019, faces compatriot Laslo Djere. These matches are crucial for players looking to establish themselves in the Masters 1000 circuit.
With the clay season underway, the Masters 1000 de Monte Carlo serves as a significant barometer for players as they prepare for the upcoming Grand Slam at Roland Garros. The tournament is renowned for its picturesque setting and challenging conditions, which require players to adapt their game to the slower surface.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the top seeds, including Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz, who are both vying for their first title in Monaco. Novak Djokovic, a two-time champion here, is also in the mix, aiming for his 100th ATP title after winning in Monte Carlo back in 2013 and 2015.
With a rich history and a unique atmosphere, the Masters 1000 de Monte Carlo continues to be a highlight of the tennis calendar, attracting the best players from around the world. As the matches unfold, fans can expect thrilling encounters and perhaps a few surprises as the tournament progresses.
In addition to the competitive spirit, the event is steeped in tradition, being the only Masters 1000 that is not mandatory for the top 10 players, though most choose to participate due to its prestige. Rafael Nadal holds the record for the most titles at this event, with 11 championships, a testament to his dominance on clay.
As the first day of the tournament unfolds, the excitement is palpable. Will Gasquet deliver a farewell performance to remember? Can Tsitsipas and his brother make a deep run in the doubles? And how will the qualifiers fare against seasoned competitors? The answers will begin to unfold as the matches commence, setting the stage for an exhilarating week of tennis in Monte Carlo.
