On a sun-drenched Friday at the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, Carlos Alcaraz marked his return to competitive tennis with a commanding 6-3, 6-3 victory over Serbian qualifier Dusan Lajovic in the second round. The 22-year-old Spaniard, sidelined by a right leg injury sustained during the Barcelona Open final, showed no signs of rust on Rome’s iconic clay courts. His performance was a statement of intent as he eyes a deep run in the tournament and a strong defense of his French Open title later this month. After the match, Alcaraz, a passionate football fan, rewarded himself by attending a Lazio vs. Inter Milan Serie A clash, blending his love for sport with a well-earned evening of relaxation.
Alcaraz, the world No. 3, wasted no time asserting dominance against Lajovic, a 34-year-old veteran. The first set saw him surge to a 5-1 lead with a double break, his powerful forehand and relentless movement overwhelming his opponent. Though Lajovic clawed back one break, Alcaraz sealed the set in 43 minutes with a third break of serve. The second set followed a similar script, with Alcaraz breaking early to go 2-0 up and maintaining control to close out the match in one hour and 22 minutes. “The body is feeling great. After today’s match, I think I moved well. I made a few good sprints today without any pain,” Alcaraz said post-match, his relief palpable. “It was a treat for me. I think I passed the test.”
The victory was more than a routine win for Alcaraz, who had withdrawn from the Madrid Open due to the adductor injury. His performance in Rome, where he hit 24 winners to Lajovic’s 11, underscored his clay-court prowess. With a 10-1 record on the surface this season, including a Monte-Carlo Masters title, Alcaraz is rounding into form at the perfect time. “Trying to feel more comfortable on the court, moving without thinking about the injury,” he added, emphasizing his focus on rebuilding confidence. “I think today was a really good day at the office. Hopefully tomorrow and Sunday is going to be better.”
Off the court, Alcaraz’s evening took a celebratory turn as he headed to the Stadio Olimpico to watch Lazio face Inter Milan. A known football enthusiast who supports Real Madrid, Alcaraz has often spoken about his love for the game. “I love playing in front of my people, in front of my family, my friends,” he said earlier this season, reflecting on the emotional connection he feels to Spanish sports culture. His decision to attend the match highlighted his ability to balance the grind of professional tennis with moments of joy, endearing him further to fans who admire his down-to-earth personality.
Alcaraz’s path in Rome won’t be easy. His third-round opponent will be either American Alex Michelsen or Serbia’s Laslo Djere, and the draw includes potential clashes with top players like Jack Draper, Holger Rune, or defending champion Alexander Zverev. A dream final against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is making his own comeback after a doping suspension, looms as a possibility. Alcaraz welcomed Sinner’s return, saying, “For me it’s great to have him back. Honestly, I’m gonna say I need him on the tour. Because he pushes me to be a better player, to give my 100% every day.” The sentiment reflects the mutual respect between the two young stars, who have split their 10 career meetings.
With a 24-5 record this season and two titles already under his belt, Alcaraz is also chasing the world No. 2 ranking, currently held by Zverev. A semi-final appearance in Rome could see him reclaim that spot, adding extra motivation. His appearance in the Netflix docuseries “Carlos Alcaraz: My Way,” released earlier this year, has only amplified his global appeal, offering fans a glimpse into his journey from a teenage prodigy to a four-time Grand Slam champion.
As Alcaraz left the Foro Italico to join the roaring crowd at Lazio’s match, he carried the confidence of a player rediscovering his rhythm. Rome, with its passionate fans and historic charm, provided the perfect stage for his comeback. With the French Open on the horizon, Alcaraz’s blend of physical brilliance and mental resilience makes him a formidable contender, both on the clay and in the hearts of fans worldwide.
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