Alejandro Davidovich Fokina is one of the most hotly-anticipated players at the Mutua Madrid Open, where his local status makes him one of the stars of the tournament. The Andalusian began his assault on the Caja Magica on Saturday under intense scrutiny, which he came through by defeating Pablo Carreño Busta 6-3, 6-3 in their first encounter on tour.

Naturally, the Malaga native’s opener was eagerly awaited by the Spanish fans. After missing the Monte Carlo and Barcelona events due to an abdominal injury, Davidovich Fokina began his clay court swing with a brave performance in Madrid, unfazed by the most intimidating court at the Madrid Masters 1000.

“I arrived without expectations, I need to see where my level is”, admitted Davidovich. “The more matches I play, the more rhythm I’ll have built up. If I lose in the next round, I’ll have to try to improve it in Rome. I’m feeling good on court, I’m motivated. Physically and mentally I’m well. Getting back to my level is just a matter of time.”

The No. 24 in the PIF ATP Rankings arrived in Madrid with a solid team in his corner that includes Pepo Clavet and Fernando Verdasco. The synergy of that group enabled the Andalusian to freewheel in the Caja Magica, where his energetic brand of tennis could be enough to ask questions of some of the heavyweights in the draw.

Davidovich is looking to regain the competitiveness he has historically shown at the Mutua Madrid Open, where he has been a tough nut to crack in recent years. The Malaga native, who was just four points away from beating two-time champion Alexander Zverev in last year’s tournament, is starting to find his rhythm in the Spanish capital.

Whatever happens next, Alejandro’s week promises to be a roller-coaster as his route through the draw is packed with stars. The Andalusian will play in the third round against Norwegian Casper Ruud, the reigning champion of the tournament.

“Casper has a higher ranking and I’ll be able to see where my level is on clay. Just because he’s the reigning champion it doesn’t mean he will win it again”.

On his return to the tour, Davidovich is one of the most experienced players without an ATP Tour trophy to his name. With a record of 0-5 in singles finals, the Spaniard is not putting himself under pressure.

“It’s a goal for me, as it is for any player. If I keep working hard, I’ll get my chances. When I have that opportunity again, I’ll try to learn from my mistakes. I have to try to get that title, even though I think it’s still a long way off”.

Meanwhile, as one of the main attractions in the Caja Magica, Davidovich Fokina is looking to keep his foot down.