Carlos Alcaraz Eyes Rome Glory, Welcomes Sinner Back from Doping Ban
By IDNN Tennis Desk
World No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz has declared himself “100% ready” to chase glory at the Italian Open, as the Spanish star returns to the court after overcoming nagging injuries — and warmly welcomed back world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is making a dramatic return following a doping suspension.
Alcaraz had pulled out of the Madrid Open due to hamstring and groin issues sustained during the Barcelona final. Now recovered, he is fired up for Rome.
“I’m really happy to be here. I feel good, the practice sessions have been great, and I can’t wait to start,” Alcaraz told reporters.
He opens his campaign against Serbia’s Dusan Lajovic in the second round, courtesy of a first-round bye.
🔥 Sinner’s Comeback Raises the Stakes
Alcaraz didn’t just speak about his own fitness — he also addressed Sinner’s return.
The Italian star, currently the world number one, is back in action after serving a three-month doping ban, his first match since winning the Australian Open in January.
“Honestly, I’m really happy to have him around again. He’s had a tough few months. There’s no better place to return than Rome, at home,” Alcaraz added.
The two are on opposite sides of the draw, making a dream final showdown a possibility — a prospect that has tennis fans around the world buzzing.
🏆 Clay Court Tension Before Paris
Alcaraz is using Rome as a tune-up for his French Open title defence, while Sinner is eager to silence critics and reassert dominance after the suspension.
Alcaraz turned 22 earlier this week and is seeking his first title of the season. Despite strong showings in Monte-Carlo and Barcelona, he remains hungry for silverware.
“Every first round is tough. You need to adjust to the court and the atmosphere. But I’m confident and excited,” he said.
🎾 What to Watch
Rome will be the ultimate clay court test before Roland Garros. With Sinner’s home crowd behind him and Alcaraz regaining form, this could be a tournament for the ages.
The stage is set. The stars are aligned. And tennis, once again, has its fiercest young rivalry heating up the Roman clay.
