Fabio Fognini, the former world number nine, has officially announced that the 2025 edition of the Internazionali d’Italia will mark his final appearance at the prestigious tournament in Rome. At 37 years old, Fognini is set to bid farewell to the sport he has dedicated three decades of his life to, as he prepares for his match against British player Jacob Fearnley on May 8, 2025.
In a heartfelt interview with Sky Sport, Fognini expressed a mixture of nostalgia and contentment about his career, stating, "I want to give space to the young players, and I think that’s the right thing to do. I’ve had a beautiful career, and I’m very happy with everything I’ve accomplished. Like all things, there’s a beginning and an end." His announcement comes as a surprise to many, as Fognini has been a staple of Italian tennis and has played a pivotal role in the sport's growth in the country.
Fognini’s journey at the Internazionali began in 2006 when he faced Thomas Johansson. Over the years, he has participated in 35 matches at the tournament, winning 17 and losing 18, showcasing a career filled with highs and lows. His most memorable moment came in 2017 when he triumphed over then-world number one Andy Murray in a thrilling match that remains etched in his memory. "The victory against Murray was my best match here. He was number one at the time, and I think it was the most beautiful match I played at the Internazionali," Fognini recalled.
Reflecting on his time at the Foro Italico, Fognini noted, "This is a tournament of dreams where you always try to play well, so there’s extra pressure. Throughout the years, I’ve learned that tennis is a lot of passion, sacrifice, and a bit of luck, and it’s also about happiness." He emphasized the emotional connection he has with the tournament, which he considers the most significant in his career.
As he prepares for his final match in Rome, Fognini recognizes the importance of passing the torch to the younger generation of players. "I’ve seen many talented young players coming up, especially behind Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti. There are many others with the potential to reach the top. I want to offer my experience and perspective, not as a coach, but as someone who has walked this path before," he stated.
Fognini’s career has been remarkable, marked by nine ATP titles, including his unforgettable victory at the Masters 1000 in Monte Carlo in 2019. He has spent 822 weeks in the Top 100, including 708 consecutive weeks, a testament to his consistency and skill on the court. He also achieved a top-ten ranking in both singles and doubles, with his highest placements being ninth in singles and seventh in doubles.
Looking back, Fognini reflects on the challenges and triumphs he has experienced throughout his career. He has faced formidable opponents, including legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, while also competing against rising stars such as Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. His comeback victory against Nadal in the 2014 US Open, where he rallied from two sets down, is considered one of the most iconic moments in Italian sports history.
As he steps onto the court for the last time in Rome, Fognini is expected to receive a warm send-off from fans who have witnessed his journey over the years. "It’s going to be a special moment with the Italian fans who have seen me as a trailblazer for the golden age of tennis in Italy," he said. Fognini's impact on the sport will be felt long after he hangs up his racket.
Despite his impending retirement, Fognini remains optimistic about the future of Italian tennis. He believes the current generation of players has the potential to achieve great things. "I’m excited about the future of Italian tennis. I’ll be here to support and guide the next wave of talent," he concluded.
As the countdown begins for his match against Jacob Fearnley, Fognini is set to leave a lasting legacy in the sport he loves. His journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and unforgettable moments, and while he may be stepping away from the court, his influence on Italian tennis will continue to inspire future generations.
