Italian Open: Carlos Alcaraz ‘passes the test’ on his comeback from injury in Rome

Spanish world number three Carlos Alcaraz says he “passed the test” after earning a straight-set win on his comeback from injury at the Italian Open.

Alcaraz, 22, pulled out of the Madrid Open last month as he dealt with hamstring and groin injuries suffered in the Barcelona Open final.

When announcing the decision in the Spanish capital, the four-time major champion was unsure if he would be fit enough to play at this week’s Italian Open.

It also brought into question his condition going into the upcoming French Open, where Alcaraz is looking to defend the men’s singles title.

Before his opening match in Rome, Alcaraz said he felt “100%” and he looked in great shape – serving strongly and moving well – in a 6-3 6-3 win against Serb qualifier Dusan Lajovic.

“The body is feeling great,” said Alcaraz, who is also the reigning Wimbledon champion.

“I made a few good sprints today without any pain. It was great.

“I think I passed the test. Trying to feel more comfortable on the court, moving without thinking about the injury.”

Alcaraz, who was given a first-round bye as a leading seed, will play either American 31st seed Alex Michelsen or Serbia’s Laslo Djere in the last 32.