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.
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Injury: Thigh strain (April)
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Time Off: 3 weeks
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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.