Carlos Alcaraz has revealed his fitness and confidence levels ahead of his Italian Open campaign, allaying injury concerns and expressing excitement for the tournament. The World No. 3 is making his return to the court after recovering from a right adductor injury that forced him to miss the Madrid Open.
Injury Update: “Body is Feeling Great”
Alcaraz suffered an upper leg ailment during the Barcelona Open final and a left leg injury. He withdrew from the Madrid Open to recover. Alcaraz has declared himself “100% ready” for the Italian Open.
In his first match back, Alcaraz defeated Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-3 at the Italian Open on Friday. He wore a black support on his upper right leg during the match. After the match, Alcaraz said his “body is feeling great”. He added, “I just moved well. I made a few good sprints today without any pain”.
“It was a test for me so I think I passed the test today,” Alcaraz stated. He also said it was a “great performance, great level, which was surprising for me a little bit, but just really happy for that”.
Confidence Boost
Alcaraz is optimistic about his condition and excited to compete. “Right now I have confidence,” Alcaraz said. “The practices have been well… I think my level is in a good spot,” he added.
He acknowledged the challenges of the first round in any tournament, noting the need to adjust to the conditions, the tournament, and the court. Despite this, he affirmed, “I’m just excited. I can’t wait for tomorrow”.
Eager to Renew Rivalry with Sinner
The Italian Open also marks the return of top-ranked Jannik Sinner after a three-month suspension for doping. Alcaraz expressed his excitement about Sinner’s return. “I’m really happy to have him around again,” Alcaraz said. “Obviously for him was tough and I’m pretty sure was super long. … It is great for me, for tennis, for the fans, that he’s able to play a tournament again”.
Alcaraz hopes to meet Sinner in the final. “Hopefully,” Alcaraz added, “I’m going to meet him at the final”. Both players are positioned in opposite halves of the draw.
Eyes on the French Open
Alcaraz emphasized his determination to prioritize the upcoming French Open. “Rome is still a possibility, but for sure I’ll be in Paris,” he asserted. He is the defending champion at the French Open, which begins on May 25.
Alcaraz reflected on his journey to recovery and expressed optimism about his prospects at the upcoming tournaments. “I think my level is in a good spot,” he affirmed.
Italian Open Details
Alcaraz is playing in the Italian Open for only the second time. Last year, he was eliminated in the third round by Fabian Marozsan.
In his opening match this year, Alcaraz defeated Dusan Lajovic. His next challenge will be against either Alex Michelsen or Laslo Djere.
The Italian Open has a packed schedule:
- First round: May 6-7
- Second round: May 8-9
- Third round: May 10-11
- Round of 16: May 12
- Quarter-finals: May 13-14
- Semi-finals: May 15
- Final: May 17
With his injury concerns eased and his confidence high, Carlos Alcaraz is poised to make a strong impact at the Italian Open as he gears up for his French Open title defense.
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