Alcaraz Books Spot in Italian Open Final, Possible Showdown with Sinner Looms
Carlos Alcaraz has reached the final of the Italian Open for the first time, securing a straight-sets victory over local favorite Lorenzo Musetti, 6–3, 7–6(4), in Rome. The win puts the world No. 3 on course for a potential marquee final against current world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who is scheduled to face American Tommy Paul in the other semifinal.
Alcaraz showcased his trademark grit, battling both challenging weather and a crowd firmly behind his opponent. After taking control early to win the first set, he rallied from a 2–4 deficit in the second before closing out the match in a tense tiebreak. This marks Alcaraz’s 25th career final and his eighth at the ATP Masters 1000 level.
A final against Sinner would renew one of the sport’s most exciting rivalries. Alcaraz holds a 6–4 edge in their previous encounters, including a recent win in Beijing. Speaking ahead of the final, Alcaraz expressed hope for the matchup, saying, “We’re on opposite sides of the draw, but I’d love to meet him in the final.”
Sinner, making a strong return after a three-month absence, has looked formidable in Rome, notably crushing Casper Ruud 6–0, 6–1 in the quarterfinals. If both stars advance, fans can expect an electrifying battle for the Italian Open cro
