Alcaraz, since losing the Australian Open quarterfinal to Djokovic, had disappointing runs in the next few tournaments he played, entering the clay swing without winning a Sunshine Double trophy for the first time since 2021. He finally ended his trophy drought at the Monte Carlo Masters by beating Lorenzo Musetti in three sets. Djokovic, on the other hand, is still searching for his first title since winning the gold medal last year at the Paris Olympics. This season, he registered three consecutive defeats twice and also withdrew from the Italian Open, which he lifted six times. He will not be playing in the tournament for the first time since 2007. Alexander Zverev is projected to meet Carlos Alcaraz in the Italian Open semifinals Alexander Zverev has met Carlos Alcaraz 11 times and edges him 6-5 in the head-to-head encounters. They once again could set up a blockbuster match if both of them reach the semifinals of the Italian Open. The winner of the match could schedule the showdown with Jannik Sinner.