Carlos Alcaraz, the world number three, is back at the Foro Itálico for the second time, looking to make a stronger impression than his last appearance two years ago when he was eliminated by Fabian Marozsan in the third round. This time, the young Spaniard is set to face Serbian Dujan Lajovic in his opening match on May 9, 2025, after defeating João Fonseca in his latest outing in Rome.
Alcaraz's return comes after a concerning adductor injury in his right leg, which he sustained during the final of the Godó tournament less than three weeks ago. Fortunately, he has recovered and is eager to compete again. "I played two very good tournaments in Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I wasn't worried at all about this injury. I'm ready and looking forward to returning. My level is in a good moment. I'm fully prepared to start the tournament," Alcaraz stated confidently.
His debut against Lajovic, ranked 131st in the world, is crucial as Alcaraz aims to add another trophy to his collection, which would be his third of the season following victories in Rotterdam and Monte Carlo. The 22-year-old is also looking to secure his 19th career title while closing out the clay-court season on a high note.
In the lead-up to this tournament, Alcaraz has been training rigorously, notably with Australian Alex de Miñaur, and has been spotted using a compression bandage on his right thigh during practice sessions. This precaution is in place to ensure his adductor remains protected as he ramps up for the competition.
As Alcaraz prepares for his match, he has been the subject of much discussion regarding his training philosophy and lifestyle choices. His recent docuseries, titled "I Want to Do It My Way," has sparked debates among fans and experts alike. Some, like fellow player Roberto Bautista, have expressed skepticism about Alcaraz's ability to win Grand Slams while maintaining his current lifestyle. Bautista remarked, "I don't think Carlos will win Grand Slams going to bed at 7 in the morning. Tennis is a very demanding sport. He has to realize that if he wants to match the numbers of the three greats [Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer], he needs to play at a high level for 15 years."
Conversely, Carlos Moyá, a former world number one and coach of Rafael Nadal, sees Alcaraz's approach as potentially viable for short-term success. "It's a complicated long-term strategy because tennis is a marathon, not a sprint. I see a bit of myself in Alcaraz. I had ambitions at 21, but my goal was never to be the best in history. Maybe that’s what’s shocking about him... nobody has done it the way he says, but perhaps he is a pioneer," Moyá commented.
Despite the mixed reactions to his lifestyle, Alcaraz remains steadfast in his belief that he can handle the pressures of the sport. He has learned to shield himself from external criticism, stating, "I try to show who I am. But one thing I've learned is not to think about what people say, especially those who aren't in my circle—my team, family, and close friends. I hear good and bad things, but I want to continue my path, doing it my way."
As the anticipation builds for the Masters 1000 in Rome, fans are eager to see how Alcaraz's injury holds up under competitive pressure. He is expected to wear the compression bandage during his match against Lajovic, and there is hope that he can build momentum toward a potential showdown with Jannik Sinner, who is also returning to the sport after a three-month suspension for a doping violation.
Alcaraz expressed his enthusiasm for Sinner's return, saying, "It's great to have him back, both for him and for tennis. I hope to meet him in the final. I look forward to watching him play again; it's fantastic for the fans."
Meanwhile, other Spanish players have also found success in the tournament, with Roberto Bautista defeating Matteo Arnaldi 6-4, 6-3, and Jaume Munar overcoming Tomás Barrios 4-6, 6-2, 7-5. However, Paula Badosa was unable to compete against Naomi Osaka due to a back injury, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by athletes during the demanding clay season.
As the action unfolds in Rome, all eyes will be on Alcaraz, who is not only striving for another title but also looking to solidify his place among the sport's elite. With the French Open looming on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever for the young Spaniard, who aims to prove that he can indeed do it his way.
