In the sun-drenched courts of Rome’s Foro Italico, the tennis world buzzed with anticipation as Carlos Alcaraz, the 22-year favorably-year-old Spanish sensation, took to the practice courts on May 8, 2025, for his final tune-up before his eagerly awaited debut at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. The world No. 3, fresh off a recovery from a nagging adductor injury, showcased his trademark intensity and flair in a practice set against Australian star Alex de Minaur, signaling his readiness to conquer the clay courts of the Italian capital. Alcaraz’s commanding 6-2 victory in the session sent ripples of excitement through fans and analysts alike, as the young Spaniard prepares to face Serbian veteran Dusan Lajovic in his opening match on May 9.
Alcaraz’s journey to Rome has been one of resilience. After a stellar start to the 2025 clay season, where he clinched the Monte Carlo Masters title and reached the Barcelona Open final, an adductor injury sustained during his loss to Holger Rune in Barcelona forced him to withdraw from the Madrid Open. The setback raised doubts about his participation in Rome, a critical stop on the road to Roland Garros, where Alcaraz is the defending champion. However, the Murcia native’s determination shone through. “I’m really happy to be here in Rome. It’s the second time that I’m going to play here, so I’m excited. The practices were great so far. I’m in good shape. I’m 100 percent ready to start the tournament,” Alcaraz declared in a pre-tournament press conference, his confidence radiating as brightly as his signature wide smile.
In recent days, Alcaraz has been methodically rebuilding his form, training with top players like Flavio Cobolli, Alexander Zverev, and de Minaur. His session against Zverev, though a narrow 6-4 loss, demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level, while the decisive win over de Minaur underscored his growing comfort on clay. Observers noted Alcaraz’s explosive movement and precise shot-making, qualities that have made him a four-time Grand Slam champion at just 22. His practice performances have quelled concerns about his physical condition, with Alcaraz himself emphasizing his recovery: “I’m not really worried about it. I believe it’s going to take one week, one week and a half, two weeks maximum, but I won’t have doubts about coming back and moving 100 percent again.”
Rome holds special significance for Alcaraz, not only as a proving ground for Roland Garros but also as a chance to reclaim the world No. 2 ranking from Alexander Zverev. A deep run, potentially to the semifinals, could see him overtake Zverev, especially if the German fails to defend his 2024 Rome title. Alcaraz’s draw is no cakewalk, with potential clashes against players like Jack Draper or Holger Rune in the quarterfinals and Zverev or Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals. Yet, his focus remains unwavering, driven by a desire to avoid an early showdown with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner at Roland Garros. “We are in different sides of the draw. Hopefully I’m going to meet him at the final,” Alcaraz said of Sinner, who is making his own return in Rome after a three-month suspension.
Alcaraz’s arrival in Rome was a moment of joy for fans, who greeted him warmly as he stepped onto the Foro Italico grounds alongside coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. His interactions with fellow players, including a friendly exchange with Fabio Fognini, highlighted his charisma, a trait that has endeared him to the tennis community. Off the court, Alcaraz’s recent Netflix docuseries, Carlos Alcaraz: My Way, has offered fans a glimpse into his human side, revealing his struggles with mental health and the pressures of stardom. “I just really wanted people to enjoy watching it. So far the reactions have been super positive, which for me it was great,” he shared, reflecting on the series’ impact.
As Alcaraz steps onto the red clay against Lajovic, the tennis world watches with bated breath. His only prior appearance in Rome, in 2023, ended in a third-round upset to Fabian Marozsan, but this year feels different. With two titles already in 2025—Rotterdam and Monte Carlo—and a renewed sense of purpose, Alcaraz is poised to make a statement. His practice sessions have laid the groundwork for what could be a defining moment in his clay-court campaign, one that could propel him toward another Roland Garros triumph and cement his place among tennis’ all-time greats.
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