Carlos Alcaraz Returns to Rome Masters After Injury Layoff

Rome, Italy – Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning champion, is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ATP Tour at the Rome Masters on Friday after recovering from a right adductor injury that sidelined him during the Madrid Open.

The 22-year-old Spanish player, who has not competed since losing the final in Barcelona to Holger Rune, expressed his excitement to be back. “I’m really happy to be here in Rome. It’s the second time that I’m going to play here, so I’m excited,” Alcaraz said at a pre-tournament press conference on Thursday. “The practices were great so far. I’m in good shape. I’m 100 percent ready to start the tournament. So I just can’t wait for tomorrow.”

Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 3 in the ATP rankings, aims to capture his second ATP Masters 1000 title of the season, having already triumphed in Monte Carlo earlier this year. He will face Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic in his opening match. Lajovic advanced past the qualifiers and is riding a wave of momentum after overcoming his own ankle injury struggles.

“The last couple of weeks have been good,” Lajovic told reporters. “I’ve found my rhythm and I’m finally playing tennis that looks like myself. It’s enjoyable to face Carlos, and I hope to have another good match on Friday.”

Beyond the court, Alcaraz is receiving attention for his new docuseries, “Carlos Alcaraz: My Way,” which explores his journey in professional tennis. Released last month, it has received positive reviews from fans and fellow players alike. Alcaraz shared, “I was nervous honestly because I didn’t know how people would react. But so far, the reactions have been super positive.”

As Alcaraz looks to regain his form and solidify his ranking ahead of the French Open, he acknowledges the importance of his performance in Rome. “Expectations? We’ll see tomorrow. I’m excited to see how far I can go,” he stated, focusing on the immediate task ahead.

The anticipation grows as fans prepare for Alcaraz’s return, amidst the bustling tournament atmosphere where he is determined to establish his presence once more.