Jannik Sinner seeks to regain his best form after a three-month suspension for doping.
The world number one achieved a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Jesper De Jong, in his second match back in front of his home crowd at the Italian Open.
Sinner, after a promising start, faced a brief slump that allowed De Jong to level the score in the first set.
Despite some errors, Sinner regained control with powerful strokes and his serve, extending his winning streak to 23 matches.
Sinner advances to the round of 16 in his first tournament since winning his third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January.
The Italian Open is the last preparation tournament before the start of Roland Garros on May 25.
The Italian fans, present at the Foro Italico, gave unconditional support to Sinner.
It’s good to have him back. He’s a very important figure in the sport. He sets the pace right now.
Tommy Paul
Sinner’s next rival will be Francisco Cerundolo.
Cerundolo arrives after reaching the semifinals of the Madrid Open.
During the match, Sinner showed sportsmanship by assisting De Jong, who suffered a fall.
Alex De Minaur also advanced to the fourth round.
In the women’s competition, Coco Gauff defeated Emma Raducanu.
Peyton Stearns eliminated Naomi Osaka.
Jasmine Paolini also reached the quarterfinals.
