Novak Djokovic is preparing to face Prizmic at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.
Djokovic hasn’t played in two months, but his chances for a 25th major title improved during his time away. Carlos Alcaraz’s absence in Rome and Paris may give the Serb, who turns 39 next week, a jolt of optimism. He’ll start his abbreviated Roland Garros prep against Prizmic, a rising 20-year-old Croat.
Djokovic v Prizmic: A Feisty Clay Court Clash
Djokovic and Prizmic have previously met at the Australian Open, where Djokovic won in four sets. Prizmic has a feisty physical style that goes well with clay. Djokovic will need to come out of the gates quickly to match his young opponent’s energy.
The estimated start time is 8:10 a.m.
Jodar’s Rapid Rise and Rome Debut
Jodar, once an unknown hopeful ranked outside the Top 100, has risen to become the 32nd seed in Rome. The 19-year-old Spaniard made himself the ATP’s Next Big Thing with a 250 title, a 500 semifinal, a strong showing against Jannik Sinner. He also impressed with some jaw-dropping ground-stroke m.p.h.s.
Jodar is set to face Borges. Borges is a solid and occasionally dangerous Portuguese veteran who likes clay and has a knack for creating angles from both wings. They’ve never played.
The start time is not before 5:00 a.m.
Muchova and Potapova to Face Off Again
Muchova’s varied style makes her a perennial dark horse at any big tournament. Potapova’s semifinal run in Madrid, which included a win over Elena Rybakina, launched her from 97 to 38.
The old Potapova was 1-4 against Muchova, who reached a final on clay in Stuttgart last month.
The estimated start time is 6:10 a.m.
Djokovic will need to be ready to match Prizmic’s energy in their upcoming match.