On a sun-drenched afternoon at the Foro Italico on May 9, 2025, Carlos Alcaraz, the 22-year-old Spanish tennis prodigy, marked his return to competitive play with a commanding 6-3, 6-3 victory over Serbian qualifier Dusan Lajovic in the second round of the Italian Open. The world No. 3, back after an adductor injury sidelined him for the Madrid Open, showcased his signature flair and relentless energy, advancing to the third round in just his second appearance at this prestigious clay-court event. Alcaraz’s performance was a statement of intent as he eyes a deep run in Rome and a strong buildup to defending his French Open title.
Alcaraz, who received a first-round bye as the third seed, wasted no time asserting his dominance on the red clay. His movement, often described as balletic, was on full display as he danced across the court, firing 15 forehand winners and deft drop shots that left Lajovic scrambling. The match, which lasted just over an hour, saw Alcaraz break Lajovic’s serve early in both sets, maintaining control throughout. “I’m in good shape. I’m 100% ready to start the tournament,” Alcaraz had declared before the match, and his performance backed up that confidence. His aggressive baseline play and pinpoint accuracy overwhelmed Lajovic, ranked 131st, who struggled to find answers despite his own clay-court pedigree.
The Spaniard’s journey to Rome was not without challenges. An upper leg injury sustained during the Barcelona Open final, where he fell 6-7(6), 2-6 to Holger Rune, forced him to withdraw from Madrid, raising concerns about his clay-season momentum. Yet, Alcaraz dispelled any doubts in Rome, where he has been training rigorously with top players like Alexander Zverev and Alex de Minaur. “The practices have gone well. I can’t wait for tomorrow,” he said pre-tournament, exuding optimism. His recent triumphs, including titles at the Monte-Carlo Masters and Rotterdam in 2025, underscore his 24-5 season record and an impressive 83% win rate on clay, where he has won nine of his ten matches this year.
Lajovic, a seasoned clay-courter with two career titles on the surface, entered the match buoyed by a 7-5, 6-1 first-round win over Yoshihito Nishioka. The 34-year-old Serbian, who battled through qualifying by defeating Cameron Norrie, saw the clash with Alcaraz as a chance to test his resurgent form. “To face Carlos is always an enjoyable moment,” Lajovic said, reflecting on their past encounters. However, Alcaraz’s dominance in their head-to-head—now 5-0, including two prior clay-court wins in Buenos Aires and Rio in 2023—proved insurmountable. Lajovic’s backhand, a known vulnerability, buckled under Alcaraz’s relentless pressure, and his serve lacked the bite to challenge the Spaniard’s return game.
The Rome crowd, known for its passionate support, was treated to a masterclass from Alcaraz, whose charisma and shot-making drew roars of approval. Social media buzzed with praise, with fans noting his “dancer-like footwork” and “special tennis” reminiscent of his Monte-Carlo heroics. This victory marks Alcaraz’s second win in Rome, where his 2023 debut ended in a third-round upset to Fabian Marozsan while battling a forearm injury. “Last year was even more difficult,” Alcaraz reflected, contrasting his current confidence with past struggles. His 10-1 record in his last 11 matches signals a return to peak form as he prepares for Roland Garros, where he aims to defend his 2024 crown.
Alcaraz now awaits the winner of the match between Alex Michelsen and Laslo Djere in the third round, a step closer to a potential blockbuster final against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is returning from a three-month doping ban. “I’m really happy to have him around again,” Alcaraz said of Sinner, expressing excitement at the prospect of renewing their rivalry. With a tough draw ahead, including possible clashes with Jack Draper, Holger Rune, or defending champion Alexander Zverev, Alcaraz’s path to his first Rome title is fraught with challenges. Yet, his performance against Lajovic suggests he’s ready to conquer the Italian capital and solidify his status as a clay-court titan.
Leave a Reply