Rome – Carlos Alcaraz, currently number 3 in the world, has managed to break his streak in Rome, where he had never surpassed the third round of the Masters 1,000. This Friday, he achieved it with a convincing victory over Serbian Dusan Lajovic (n.131), whom he defeated in two sets (6-3 and 6-3).
In his debut on Italian clay, Alcaraz showed he was in good physical shape, despite playing with a compression sleeve on his right leg due to an injury suffered in Godó. In addition, he made it clear that his goal in Rome is not only to prepare for Roland Garros, but also to win the tournament, where he has played few matches in total.
Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz, during today’s match in Rome. EFE/EPA/Fabio Frustaci
Alcaraz had already expressed in a previous press conference his desire to face the Italian Jannik Sinner (world no. 1) in the final, a dream match in Italy. He highlighted the importance of this first match to assess his feelings and the development of the tournament.
Alcaraz’s return to competition, after not participating in Madrid, was a spectacle in Rome. He showed solidity for almost an hour and a half, and resilience when necessary, especially in the second part of the first set, when Lajovic intensified his game.
At the beginning, Alcaraz dominated the match, breaking the Serbian’s serve twice and going up 4-0. Although he made some errors at the net, he sought the support of his coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, who approved of his performance despite the Serbian’s ‘break’ (5-3).
Alcaraz exhibited his forehand, returned well and delighted the audience with spectacular points, including his characteristic smile. He won the first set in 44 minutes, securing the set on the second point.
Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz, during today’s match in Rome. EFE/EPA/Fabio Frustaci
In the second set, Alcaraz continued his dominance, with Lajovic trying to survive. In 21 minutes, Alcaraz was already leading 4-1, with a break in Lajovic’s first service and an excellent performance in his own serves.
