The world number one booked his place in the quarter-finals in Rome with a straight sets win over the Argentine on Tuesday (13.05.25) and was happy to overcome his toughest match since returning to the court following his three-month suspension for doping.

Sinner said: "He's a very tough competitor. It's a great challenge for me, especially now in this moment trying to get used to so many difficult situations on the court. I broke him in the first and it was a very long game, and when he broke me back I just tried to stay there mentally and play every point.

"But I'm very happy because today I felt that I raised my level. Game-wise, I felt a little bit better, which I'm very glad and happy [about].

"It was very heavy conditions and it was a very long day. The crowd helped me so much today. I'm happy to go through."

Sinner was able to neutralise a rival who has won 18 matches on clay this season and explained that he is having to take care of his body following his enforced absence from the court.

The Italian ace said: "I'll wake up and I know it's going to be a longer evening for me.

"I have to do many things and try to recover in the best possible way. But exactly as I said, I need this.

"I’m happy to be back [after] three months out, so with every situation I’m very fortunate and lucky. Let’s see, whatever comes up, comes up."

Sinner recently admitted that he was fortunate not to miss any major tournaments while serving his suspension.

The three-time Grand Slam champion said: "Of course when you go to court it can go both ways - nothing or a lot.

"I didn't want to do it [agree a settlement] in the beginning, so it was not easy for me to accept it because I know what really happened.

"But sometimes we have to choose the best in a very bad moment, and that's what we did.

"For me personally it's good news that there are not the Grand Slams included."