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Alcaraz Turns Up the Heat in Rome as He Powers into Last 16

Alcaraz Shakes Off Rust, Powers Past Djere in Rome

By:IDNN Tennis & Global Sports Desk

Rome, Italy – Four-time Grand Slam winner Carlos Alcaraz proved he’s regaining form after injury, marching into the last 16 of the Italian Open with a dominant 7-6 (7/2), 6-2 win over Serbian clay-court specialist Laslo Djere.

Playing just his second match since returning from a thigh injury, the Spanish sensation showed flashes of brilliance and growing sharpness on Rome’s red clay.

“I was moving well. Just a few mistakes here and there,” Alcaraz told reporters. “But I stayed mentally strong and waited for my chances.”


Match Breakdown

Set Result Key Moments
1 7-6 (7/2) Alcaraz rallied from two breaks down
2 6-2 Djere faded as Alcaraz controlled pace

Djere—whose three ATP titles all came on clay—started strong but couldn’t maintain his rhythm. Alcaraz dominated the tiebreak and never looked back.


Comeback Mode: Alcaraz’s Recovery

Alcaraz missed weeks of action after falling in the Barcelona Open final to Holger Rune. Rome marks his return to rhythm ahead of Roland Garros.

  • Injury: Thigh strain (April)

  • Time Off: 3 weeks

  • Goal: Peak fitness for French Open (May 26 start)


Next Up: Karen Khachanov

The Spaniard now faces Karen Khachanov, who demolished wild card Francesco Passaro 6-3, 6-0. It’s a step up in difficulty, but Alcaraz remains confident.

“It’ll be tough. But this is what I’m here for—playing the best, getting better every round.”


Alcaraz in Rome: Career Snapshot

Year Best Finish
2023 3rd Round
2024 Did Not Play
2025 Last 16 (and counting)

IDNN Takeaway

Carlos Alcaraz is shaking off the rust and heating up just in time for the Grand Slam swing. The Rome crowd loves him. The draw opens up. And the tennis world is once again watching the Prince of Clay make his move.

Watch out, Paris.


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