Tommy Paul Sets Sights on ‘Revenge’ Against Australia’s ‘Clay Dog’ Alex de Minaur at the Rome Open

Tommy Paul is still in search of his first victory against Australia’s Alex de Minaur on the professional tennis circuit, but he believes that streak could end in Rome.

The world No. 12 is set to go head-to-head with the highest-ranked Australian in the third round of the Rome Open, after both players notched impressive wins over their opponents on Tuesday (AEST).

De Minaur managed to navigate through the challenges of an ill spectator and a flyover by the Italian Air Force’s aerobatic team to secure a straight-sets triumph against Bolivian lucky loser Hugo Dellien.

This win not only advanced de Minaur to the round of 16 but also made him the only player on the professional circuit to achieve this feat in every Masters 1000 event this year.

Meanwhile, Paul triumphed with a scoreline of 6-5, 5-7 (7-5), 6-4 against Tomas Machac.

Paul and de Minaur are well-acquainted with each other’s playing styles, having met on the court at both junior and professional levels.

However, on the pro circuit, the duo have faced off five times, with de Minaur emerging victorious each time.

In Rome, Paul is eager for retribution.

“I’m extra motivated for this match because I want to get my first win against him,” Paul told the Tennis Channel.

“He’s had the upper hand against me on the Pro Tour. Our matches have been intense… some brilliant encounters where I’ve had my chances.”

“I haven’t managed to get a win yet, so hopefully this will be the one.”

This season, Paul heads into the encounter with 19 victories to his name, while de Minaur has racked up 26.

“Wow, that’s quite a lot,” Paul responded when informed of de Minaur’s tally.

The 27-year-old is looking to claim the self-styled title of ‘Clay Dog’ from his rival in Rome—a moniker jokingly declared by the Australian last month in Monte Carlo.

However, Paul is aware that achieving this won’t be a walk in the park.

“I have a tough match ahead,” he said.

“I feel like my movement is solid. I’m able to move better both forwards and backwards, lifting my forehands and hitting them with more intensity. Serving is particularly crucial for me; I know that if my serve isn’t on point, de Minaur can seize the initiative. He’s an exceptional player.”

“This will be a bit of a revenge match.”