Alcaraz advances to third tound at Rome Open

Return after injury

The world No. 3 was playing his first match since recovering from a right adductor injury, which he sustained in last month’s Barcelona Open final loss to Holger Rune. He wrapped up the win in just 1 hour and 23 minutes.

Dominant head-to-head record

Alcaraz extended his unbeaten record against Lajovic to 5-0, displaying strong form in his return to competition.

Looking ahead to third round

The Spaniard will face another Serbian, Laslo Djere, in the third round. Djere advanced after a dominant 6-0, 6-3 win over American Alex Mikkelsen.

Eyes on a final clash with Sinner

With top seed Jannik Sinner also in the draw, Alcaraz is aiming for a potential high-stakes final in the Italian capital. “I did a good job today,” Alcaraz said. “I hope things will be better tomorrow and Sunday.”