Daijiworld Media Network - Rome
Rome, May 12: Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz surged into the fourth round of the Italian Open for the first time, defeating Laslo Djere 7-6(2), 6-2 in a composed performance on Sunday.
The 22-year-old, who had also beaten Djere last month en route to the Barcelona final, was made to work early on but ultimately took control in the second set, capitalising on his opponent's right arm injury. The match lasted one hour and 44 minutes, with Alcaraz converting four of nine break points and sealing his 26th tour-level win of the season — the most by any player so far in 2024.
Djere had the chance to serve out the first set but was thwarted by Alcaraz’s mental resilience and brilliance in the tie-break, which he punctuated with a remarkable forehand slice winner from an improbable angle.
"He played really solid in the first set," Alcaraz said. "I just told myself to stay mentally strong and wait for my chance. I’m happy to get through that and win the set.”
The Serbian needed medical attention for his arm during the match, which visibly affected his play in the second set. Alcaraz took full advantage, racing to a double-break lead before closing out the match with clinical efficiency.
“In the second set I was much more comfortable,” Alcaraz added. “He made a few mistakes, and I took my chances. I’m really happy with the win.”
Next, Alcaraz will face 23rd seed Karen Khachanov, who earlier breezed past Italy’s Francesco Passaro 6-3, 6-0. A victory over Khachanov would mark a significant milestone for Alcaraz, completing his record of reaching the quarterfinals at all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments.
Alcaraz holds a 4-0 career lead over Khachanov in their Lexus ATP Head-to-Head matchups.