Carlos Alcaraz showed impressive grit and aggression to beat Jack Draper 6-3, 6-4 in the Italian Open quarterfinals on May 14, wrapping up the match in just 1 hour and 37 minutes. Despite falling behind early in the first set when Draper took a 4-2 lead with a break, Alcaraz responded swiftly with back-to-back breaks, closing the set in 42 minutes.
In the second set, both players exchanged breaks early, but at 4-4, Alcaraz secured the decisive fourth break, sealing the match. The 22-year-old emphasized that his aggressive style — mixing powerful shots, drop shots, and net approaches — was key to preventing Draper from dictating long rallies. “I didn’t let him dominate or stay long in the rallies,” Alcaraz said, highlighting that keeping a high rhythm helped him control the match.
This win marks a positive return for Alcaraz after missing the Madrid Open due to groin and hamstring injuries from Barcelona. He expressed growing confidence on clay, which is crucial ahead of his title defense at the French Open later this month. Alcaraz said, “I’m happy I’m feeling the good rhythm and feeling the good tennis again on clay here in Rome.”
Next up for Alcaraz is a semifinal showdown with Lorenzo Musetti, who caused an upset by defeating Alexander Zverev in straight sets. It promises to be an exciting contest as Alcaraz builds momentum toward Roland Garros.
