The Masters 1000 of Rome has kicked off with excitement, as both the ATP and WTA players have begun their campaigns at the historic Foro Italico. On May 7, 2025, the first rounds unveiled a series of unexpected results, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament. Among the notable matches, the early exit of Jiri Lehecka, ranked No. 22 in the world, shocked spectators as he fell to Frenchman Alexandre Muller, who is currently ranked No. 39.
Lehecka, who enjoyed a strong start to the season with a title win at the ATP 250 in Brisbane, seemed poised for success in Rome. However, his match against Muller turned into a dramatic encounter. The match began with Lehecka breaking Muller’s serve early, establishing a 2-0 lead in the first set. Yet, Muller quickly found his rhythm, battling back to take the first set 6-2.
In the second set, Lehecka regained his composure, showcasing his powerful groundstrokes and strategic play, which allowed him to level the match at one set apiece with a score of 6-3. As the match progressed into the third set, tension mounted. Both players exchanged fierce rallies, with Muller displaying remarkable resilience and determination.
Ultimately, the deciding set reached a nail-biting tiebreak where Muller edged out Lehecka 7-6 (5), clinching the match and securing his place in the second round. This victory marks a significant achievement for Muller, who has been steadily improving his game and proving to be a tough competitor on the ATP tour.
Following his victory, Muller expressed his excitement about advancing in the tournament. “I felt great on the court today. It’s always tough to play against someone like Jiri, who is very talented. I just focused on my game and took it point by point,” Muller stated. His next challenge will be against the No. 18 seed, Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is known for his aggressive playing style and strong baseline game.
As the tournament unfolds, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. Other matches on the first day included impressive performances from players like Jordan Thompson, who triumphed over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (5), and Francisco Comesana, who defeated Daniel Altmaier 6-1, 7-5. Corentin Moutet also made headlines with a comeback victory against Rinky Hijikata, winning 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.
In addition to the thrilling matches, Muller has recently made waves off the court by signing a sponsorship deal with the platform OnlyFans. This partnership has sparked conversations within the tennis community, as Muller noted, “Many tennis players will sign with OnlyFans this season.” His statement has raised eyebrows, but it also highlights the evolving landscape of athlete endorsements in the modern era.
The Rome Masters 1000, with its rich history and prestigious status, continues to attract top talent from around the globe. As players vie for the coveted title and valuable ranking points, fans can expect more surprises and intense matches as the tournament progresses. With the likes of Tsitsipas and other top seeds yet to play, the excitement is just beginning.
Looking ahead, the next round promises to be electrifying. Muller’s matchup against Tsitsipas will be one to watch, as both players bring unique strengths to the court. Tsitsipas, known for his powerful serve and exceptional net play, will likely pose a significant challenge for Muller, who will need to maintain his focus and composure to continue his successful run in Rome.
The Masters 1000 of Rome not only showcases the best in tennis but also serves as a platform for emerging talents like Muller to make their mark. As the tournament unfolds, fans eagerly await more thrilling matches and the potential for upsets in this prestigious event. With the clay courts of Rome as the backdrop, the drama of the Masters 1000 is sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, the early rounds of the Rome Masters have set the stage for an exhilarating tournament filled with surprises. With players like Alexandre Muller making headlines both on and off the court, the excitement is palpable as the competition continues to heat up. Stay tuned as we follow the journey of these athletes in their quest for glory at one of tennis’s most revered events.
