Lorenzo Musetti expressed clear frustration when asked about a potential semifinal match against Carlos Alcaraz immediately after his victory at the 2025 French Open. The Italian had just secured his first-ever semifinal spot at Roland Garros and was taken aback by questions anticipating a showdown between him and Alcaraz, who was still competing against Tommy Paul at the time. Musetti called the question “really disrespectful” toward both players still battling on the court, emphasizing that it was too soon to discuss future rounds.
Breakthrough Performance Propels Musetti Into French Open Semifinals
At 23 years old, Musetti is enjoying a career milestone at the clay-court Grand Slam held in Paris. Seeded eighth, he has delivered commanding performances over several opponents including Yannick Hanfmann, Daniel Elahi Galán, Mariano Navone, and 10th seed Holger Rune. In the quarterfinals, Musetti overcame 15th seed Frances Tiafoe with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 victory to reach the semifinals for the first time in his career at Roland Garros.
Following his win, speculation emerged about a possible rematch with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, referring to their recent encounter in Monte Carlo where Alcaraz won in three sets. During the subsequent press conference, when asked about his strategy for the potential semifinal against Alcaraz, Musetti responded with surprise and irritation, saying,
“Honestly, I found [it] really disrespectful for Tommy, for the ones who they play to have a question already about the semifinals. There’s a match to play and honestly I don’t want to answer on this question.”
Shortly after this interaction, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Tommy Paul decisively in straight sets, securing his place in the semifinals and setting up the seventh career meeting between him and Musetti, with Alcaraz holding a 5-1 head-to-head lead.
Family Motivates Musetti’s Focus and Growth on the Tour
In a post-match interview, Musetti revealed that his recent entry into fatherhood has been a major source of inspiration. The birth of his son Ludovico with partner Veronica Confalonieri has given him new purpose, pushing him to become a role model not only for his child but also for young tennis fans worldwide.
Having a family is a really big responsibility. I want to be an example for my son. Not just for my son, for the fans, for kids that dream of becoming tennis players. When I was a kid I was one of them,
Musetti said.
I was looking the same at their age. I wanna be an example. I put some things in order off court.
There’s a lot to do still. But there’s still room for improvement. Really really happy to be in the semis for the first time,
he added, reflecting on his ongoing development both as a player and person.
Upcoming Semifinal Clash Holds Significant Implications
This French Open marks a pivotal moment in Musetti’s career as he aims to establish himself among the top contenders on clay courts. His upcoming encounter with Carlos Alcaraz, a dominant figure in men’s tennis and the defending champion, carries high stakes and the potential to define his trajectory. Musetti’s insistence on respecting the current stage of competition underscores a professional mindset that prioritizes focus and respect for all opponents, including Tommy Paul, who plays a key role in the tournament’s dynamic.
As the semifinals approach, fans and commentators alike will watch closely to see if Musetti can continue his breakthrough run and how his growing maturity off the court might translate into success at the highest level of the sport.