World number three Carlos Alcaraz reached his first Italian Open final after overcoming Lorenzo Musetti in a captivating semi-final that stretched beyond two hours on Friday.

The Spaniard dismantled the hopes of a home-soil triumph as he prevailed 6-3, 7-6(4) in a contest that had electrified fans in Rome. Enthusiasts anticipating an all-Italian final departed disheartened after the local challenger failed to halt Alcaraz’s charge.

Representing Rome as the local favourite, Lorenzo Musetti entered the court determined to reverse his recent Monte Carlo loss to the Spaniard. However, after unleashing a spirited start, Musetti surrendered the first set as Alcaraz broke him twice.

During the tense first set, frustration consumed Musetti, who smashed his racquet and struck himself in visible disappointment. Though dismayed, he drew support from the fervent Italian crowd.

Despite regaining momentum in the second set with a 4-2 lead, Musetti succumbed to a determined resurgence by Alcaraz. The Spaniard clawed back to equalise the set. Musetti then salvaged a match point and forced a tiebreak, where Alcaraz ultimately surged ahead to seal the match.

From Spain, world number three and finalist Carlos Alcaraz remarked candidly, “Today the crowd was for Lorenzo, so it wasn’t easy. It was great, honestly. The atmosphere was great.”

Alcaraz expressed appreciation for the spectators’ conduct throughout the clash. “I have to say thank you for them being respectful as well. Obviously there are some times they were cheering for him in some moments between serves... But in general, they were respectful. So I have to thank them.”

Speaking about the playing conditions, Alcaraz admitted the challenge imposed by the environment. “Today was a really difficult day with the conditions, the wind was tough to play with,” he said.

He then reflected on his tactical mindset during the semi-final. “It wasn’t about playing brilliant, spectacular tennis. It was about playing smart tennis, playing solid, going to the point when you can, and waiting for the chance to play aggressively. I think I did that pretty well.”

Alcaraz awaited the winner between world number one and home favourite Jannik Sinner and American contender Tommy Paul for the final showdown.