Alcaraz, Sinner Top 2026 Monte Carlo Masters Draw

The 2026 Rolex Monte Carlo Masters draw, unveiled on April 3, sets the stage for an intense clay-court showdown starting Monday at the Monte Carlo Country Club in Monaco, where defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and rival Jannik Sinner will vie not only for the title but also supremacy in the ATP rankings.

Alcaraz, the world No. 1 and 2025 winner, enters with a first-round bye and faces the victor of Stan Wawrinka versus Sebastian Baez in the second round. The Spaniard, who captured the Australian Open and Qatar titles earlier this year, has cooled off with two losses in his last three matches, including a third-round exit in Miami. His coach, Samuel Lopez, confirmed Alcaraz plans to compete in the full clay swing, including Monte Carlo, Rome, and Roland Garros, to build momentum after the Miami setback. "Monte Carlo is going to be more of a preparation tournament," Lopez said, noting it could help Alcaraz arrive at Roland Garros in top form.

Sinner, seeded second after achieving the rare Sunshine Double by winning Indian Wells and Miami without dropping a set, could reclaim the No. 1 ranking if he reaches the semifinals or better. Currently 190 points behind Alcaraz in the live...