Carlos Alcaraz "got crazy" watching Rory McIlroy after issues finding Masters coverage in Monte Carlo

Both Career Grand Slam holders aim to successfully defend titles this weekend.



MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - APRIL 06: Carlos Alcaraz of Spain arrives for a practice session during day one of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters at Monte-Carlo Country Club on April 06, 2026 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
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By now, it’s widely known that Carlos Alcaraz is a passionate golf enthusiast.

So it’s comes as little shock that the world No. 1 has his priorities in order when he’s not on the court in Monte Carlo. Call it Masters x Masters for short.

“Just after the match, just ran back to the hotel to put on the Masters. So for me, I had a little bit (of a) problem, because I didn't find it in the TV and having a Spanish phone sometimes (makes it) tricky to watch the Augusta Masters,” Alcaraz shared Friday about his prior evening.

“I could watch it a little bit. I felt sorry a little bit about Jon (Rahm), didn't have a good day yesterday. But supporting him always. Sergio Garcia, as well, Spanish player.”

Carlos Alcaraz believes Jannik Sinner is succeeding with making his drop shot a weapon | Monte Carlo Press Conference7:58

The defending champion at this week’s ATP Masters 1000 clay-court event, the Spaniard is also pulling for a fellow Career Grand Slam holder of his respective trade to run it back on Sunday.

“I just got crazy seeing Rory McIlroy, playing such a great day first day, first round of the Masters,” he said. “I'm just cheering him on, and he'll hopefully go till the end.”

Alcaraz, who met McIlroy during last year's US Open before going on to lift the trophy, swiftly moved into the final four at the Monte-Carlo Country Club. The 22-year-old dispatched Alexander Bublik, 6-3, 6-0, for his 300th career win.

Asked to select his three most memorable victories from the lot, Alcaraz responded, “The first one is always special, the first ATP match that I won. I would say probably the French Open final. The first one that came to my mind is like the first win against Djokovic. I would say that's my top three.”

Looking to hold off Jannik Sinner from overtaking him atop the ATP rankings, Alcaraz awaits Valentin Vacherot after the home favorite topped Alex de Minaur to close out quarterfinal action. The top seed seeks his third title of the year, following triumphs at the Australian Open and Doha.