Paris, May 26 (Reporter) Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz has thrown his support behind world number one Aryna Sabalenka to clinch the women's singles title at the 2025 French Open, favouring her over defending champion Iga Swiatek and American contender Coco Gauff. "To be honest, I think Aryna Sabalenka," Alcaraz stated when asked about his prediction for the women's champion in Paris. "She's the tiger. I love watching her play, so I think she can win." Alcaraz’s endorsement comes on the back of Sabalenka’s ruthless opening-round performance, where she dismantled Kamilla Rakhimova 6-1, 6-0 in just over an hour, making an early statement at Roland Garros. Though Sabalenka’s record on clay has historically lagged behind her hard-court performances, recent seasons have seen her develop a more nuanced and powerful clay-court game. She has clinched three Madrid Open titles and made consistent deep runs in WTA events on the surface, showcasing her growing comfort and tactical adaptability. While Iga Swiatek remains a heavy favourite with four French Open crowns to her name, including a dominant win in 2024, her recent form has raised eyebrows. Early exits in Madrid and Rome have left some questioning whether she can sustain her dominance on clay this season. Sabalenka, by contrast, has remained a picture of consistency, reaching at least the semifinals in the last six Grand Slams and lifting the Australian Open trophy earlier this year. Alcaraz, who is also beginning the defence of his Roland Garros title, will face Italy’s Giulio Zeppieri in his opening match following a last-minute withdrawal by Japan’s Kei Nishikori. As the tournament unfolds, attention will be fixed on whether Sabalenka can convert form into a breakthrough at the French Open and justify Alcaraz’s bullish prediction...////...