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Lehecka Aims to Upset Ruud in Rome Battle
10 May
Summary
- Casper Ruud and Jiri Lehecka will compete on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
- Ruud leads the head-to-head record with two previous wins.
- Lehecka is in strong recent form and poses a significant threat.

The Italian Open 2026 will feature a compelling third-round clash on Sunday, May 10, as Casper Ruud, seeded 23rd, faces the 11th-seeded Jiri Lehecka. The match is scheduled for 2:30 PM local time at Foro Italico in Rome, on outdoor clay courts.
Ruud enters this ATP Masters 1000 event after reaching the quarterfinals in Madrid. He began his Rome campaign with a decisive 6-1, 6-3 victory over Zachary Svajda. Lehecka, meanwhile, has been displaying excellent form throughout his clay-court season, including a quarterfinal appearance in Madrid and a previous round of 16 showing in Monte-Carlo. He advanced in Rome by defeating Jan-Lennard Struff in straight sets.
Historically, Ruud has the advantage in their head-to-head record, having won both previous encounters in 2022 and 2023. However, Lehecka's recent impressive performances indicate he will be a significant challenge. The match is predicted to go to three sets, with a tip suggesting at least 21 games will be played.