The clay courts of Rome’s Foro Italico are primed for a blockbuster quarterfinal showdown at the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, as world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz prepares to face off against Britain’s rising star, Jack Draper. Fresh off a grueling 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 victory over Karen Khachanov, Alcaraz has ignited anticipation with a bold declaration: “I want to take revenge from Indian Wells.” The Spaniard’s pointed message references Draper’s stunning three-set upset in the Indian Wells semifinals earlier this year, where the Brit claimed his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title. As both players vie for a semifinal berth and crucial momentum ahead of the French Open, this clash promises to be a defining moment in their burgeoning rivalry.
Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, has been a force in Rome, navigating physical challenges and a demanding draw to reach his first quarterfinal at the tournament. His battle against Khachanov, a 2.5-hour marathon, showcased his resilience despite visible fatigue. “Physically, I struggled a bit. Not any pain, but I was just tired,” Alcaraz admitted, acknowledging the Russian’s relentless pressure. “Khachanov’s level was insane. He pushes you to the limit in every point.” Yet, Alcaraz’s 41 winners and clutch play in the decisive third set secured his 26-5 record for 2025, including an impressive 12-1 mark on clay. His determination to reclaim his form after missing the Madrid Open due to injury underscores his hunger. “I had to be very focused,” he said, reflecting on the early 11:00 a.m. start. “Starting early makes it tough to get into the match, but I did quite well.”
Draper, ranked No. 5 and riding a career-high wave, presents Alcaraz’s toughest test yet in Rome. The 23-year-old Brit has transformed into a clay-court threat, reaching the Madrid Open final just days ago and overpowering Corentin Moutet 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 in a dramatic comeback. “I was a bit bamboozled at the start,” Draper confessed, describing Moutet’s unorthodox style. “I felt like I was on a string, covering the whole court.” His composure after a controversial video review and ability to outlast Moutet’s crafty drop shots highlight his growth. Draper’s 22-5 season record, bolstered by titles in Indian Wells and an ATP 500 in Barcelona, positions him as a legitimate contender. “I feel strong and good about the match,” he said, exuding confidence. “I hope I can bring some really good tennis.”
Their rivalry, with Alcaraz leading 3-2, has been marked by intense battles, including Draper’s breakthrough win at Queen’s in 2024 and Alcaraz’s retirements in earlier encounters. “He’s one of the best players in the world right now,” Alcaraz said of Draper, praising his aggressive style and physical improvements. “Every point is a battle. He’s really solid, really passionate.” Draper reciprocated the respect, noting, “I know what he’s going to bring. He’s going to be really tough to beat.” Their first clay-court meeting adds intrigue, with Alcaraz’s superior groundstrokes and clay pedigree pitted against Draper’s newfound consistency on the surface. “I remember the match perfectly in Indian Wells,” Alcaraz recalled, pinpointing his nervous start and errors. “I will try to start much better, with more rhythm, not making a lot of mistakes.”
The stakes are sky-high. A win for Alcaraz would reclaim the world No. 2 ranking from Alexander Zverev, ensuring a favorable French Open seeding to avoid Jannik Sinner until a potential final. For Draper, a victory would propel him to a career-high No. 4, surpassing Taylor Fritz, and cement his status as a Grand Slam contender. As Alcaraz eyes his third title of 2025 and Draper chases another Masters milestone, their Rome clash is more than a quarterfinal—it’s a statement. With Alcaraz’s vow for revenge echoing, fans await a spectacle that could redefine their rivalry and shape the clay season.
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