A blockbuster quarterfinal awaits at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome, as British rising star Jack Draper takes on the reigning clay-court king, Carlos Alcaraz. Both players have had strong seasons so far, but Alcaraz remains the benchmark when it comes to red clay. Draper will be chasing a career-defining victory, while Alcaraz looks to maintain momentum in his title quest.
Jack Draper vs Carlos Alcaraz Preview
Although Alcaraz hasn’t played his most convincing tennis in Rome so far, he continues to find ways to win. After a straightforward opener against Laslo Djere, the Spaniard was pushed to the limit by Karen Khachanov in the Round of 16, eventually prevailing 6-3, 3-6, 7-5. Despite moments of inconsistency, Alcaraz’s mental strength and clay-court nous allowed him to edge past a dangerous opponent and reach his first Rome Masters quarterfinal. This milestone also sees him complete quarterfinal appearances at all nine Masters 1000 events — a remarkable feat for a player still early in his career.
His recent performances have shown resilience rather than dominance, but he remains a heavy favourite on clay thanks to his superior movement, shot variety, and ability to raise his level at key moments.
Draper continues to grow in confidence on clay. His run to the final in Madrid – where he pushed Casper Ruud to three sets – marked his best career result on the surface, and he has carried that momentum into Rome. After battling past Moutet in three sets in the Round of 16, Draper is showing greater tactical maturity and physical readiness for long rallies on the dirt.
His powerful lefty forehand and improving rally tolerance make him a tricky opponent for anyone, even Alcaraz. He has already beaten the Spaniard this year on hard courts in Indian Wells, showing he has the weapons and the mindset to compete at the highest level.
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Place your bet on Betting Tip: Jack Draper vs Carlos Alcaraz
Jack Draper vs Carlos Alcaraz – Match Analysis
While Draper is certainly a better clay-courter than he was a year ago, this matchup still heavily favours Alcaraz on this surface. The Spaniard’s defensive skills, footwork, and ability to switch directions effortlessly on clay give him a distinct edge. Draper will have to play aggressive first-strike tennis and hope to disrupt Alcaraz’s rhythm early. However, in best-of-three sets on red clay, that’s a big ask against a player who thrives on longer rallies and adapts quickly mid-match.
Betting Tip – Jack Draper vs Carlos Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz may not be at his absolute peak, but his baseline consistency and clay-court pedigree should prove too strong for Draper. The Brit has the tools to test him for a set, but throughout the match, Alcaraz’s variety and tactical maturity should prevail. Unless Alcaraz has an off day or suffers physically, expect the Spaniard to reach the semifinals.
Betting Tip: Carlos Alcaraz to Win
Betting Odds: 1.40
Bookmaker: Cloudbet