Sat May 31 10:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Defending French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz struggled but ultimately defeated Damir Dzumhur in four sets to advance to the fourth round. Dzumhur, battling an injury, put up a strong fight, especially after the first two sets. Alcaraz admitted to struggling with focus and not enjoying the match. He will face Ben Shelton in the next round. The article also notes that Tommy Paul, Frances Tiafoe also advanced, meaning that for the first time since 1995, three American men are in the fourth round of the French Open.

**News Article:**

**Alcaraz Battles Through Dzumhur to Reach French Open Fourth Round; Faces Shelton Next**

PARIS – Defending French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame a determined Damir Dzumhur in a hard-fought four-set match on Friday night, securing his place in the fourth round. The second-seeded Spaniard defeated the Bosnian veteran 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 in a match that proved more challenging than expected.

Alcaraz admitted to struggling with his focus during the match. “I suffered quite a lot today,” he said. “The first two sets were under control, then he started to play more deeply and more aggressively. It was really difficult for me.”

Dzumhur, who was visibly hampered by a leg injury sustained earlier in the tournament, received treatment during the match but continued to battle, even taking the third set and breaking Alcaraz early in the fourth.

Despite the unexpected resistance, Alcaraz regained his composure, breaking back twice in the fourth set to serve for the match. He ultimately clinched victory on his second match point.

Alcaraz will now face No. 13 seed Ben Shelton in the fourth round. Shelton, who is making his first Roland Garros fourth-round appearance, said he’s excited for the opportunity. “Playing the defending champion, round of 16… that’s a pretty cool opportunity.”

The win adds to a strong showing for American men at Roland Garros, as Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe also advanced, marking the first time since 1995 that three American men have reached the fourth round. If qualifier Ethan Quinn wins Saturday, there would be four American men in Week 2 in Paris for the first time since 1991.

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