On May 10, 2025, the tennis world is buzzing as Jannik Sinner makes his long-awaited return to the court at the Internazionali d'Italia in Rome. After a three-month suspension related to a Clostebol case, the world number one is set to face Mariano Navone, ranked 99th, in the second round. This match marks Sinner's first competitive appearance since his triumph at the Australian Open, where he claimed his third Grand Slam title.
Fans have eagerly anticipated this moment, as Sinner, who has been training at the Foro Italico, has drawn large crowds eager to catch a glimpse of the star. The atmosphere is electric, and Sinner himself has expressed gratitude for the support he has received during his time away from the sport. "Finally, the preparation is over. I want to thank you for the support these days, for the happiness and love you’ve transmitted to me. It’s been fantastic," Sinner said in a video posted on his YouTube channel just hours before the match.
Today’s face-off against Navone is particularly significant, as it is the first time the two players will meet on the court. Navone, who recently defeated Italian player Federico Cinà in straight sets (6-3, 6-3), is known for his prowess on clay, making this encounter all the more intriguing. The match is set to begin at 19:00 local time on the Centrale court, and Sinner will be the first player to compete in the evening session.
Despite his recent success, Sinner is approaching this match with cautious optimism. "I have very low expectations in Rome; I need to understand my level," he remarked, acknowledging the challenges posed by his long absence from competitive play. The young Italian, born in 2001, is keen to push past the quarterfinals, a stage he reached in 2022, and capitalize on the home advantage.
As the match approaches, the excitement among fans is palpable. Many have flocked to the Foro Italico to witness Sinner's return, and his training sessions have been met with sold-out crowds. The anticipation is not just for Sinner's performance but also for how he will handle the pressure of returning after a significant hiatus.
Navone, on the other hand, is ready to seize the opportunity. In a pre-match statement, he acknowledged the challenge ahead: "It will be special to play against Jannik in his comeback match. He is an incredible player who has won many Slams. I will prepare my game to try to win. I will try to spoil his return; surely, the three-month break has taken away some of his rhythm. I’ve played matches like this before." This mindset reflects Navone's determination to make the most of this high-stakes encounter.
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and Rai 2, with streaming options available through platforms like SkyGo, NOW, and RaiPlay. Fans who cannot make it to the venue can still catch the action from the comfort of their homes, ensuring that Sinner’s return is witnessed by a broad audience.
As the clock ticks down to the match start, both players are likely feeling the weight of expectations. For Sinner, this match is not just a return; it’s an opportunity to reaffirm his status as the world’s top player. For Navone, it’s a chance to make a name for himself against one of the sport's elite.
In addition to the Sinner-Navone match, the tournament features other exciting matchups. Matteo Berrettini is also making his debut in the second round against Jacob Fearnley, who recently triumphed over Fabio Fognini. This is another fresh encounter, adding to the intrigue of the day.
Meanwhile, Matteo Gigante is set to take on Jakub Mensik, the 20th seed, while Luca Nardi faces a tough challenge against the 7th seed, Alex De Minaur. The women’s draw has reached the third round, with Jasmine Paolini battling Ons Jabeur in a match that has seen both players split their previous encounters 2-2.
The Internazionali d'Italia continues to be a highlight on the tennis calendar, showcasing both established stars and rising talents. With the tournament running until May 18, fans can expect plenty of thrilling matches ahead.
As the players take their positions on the court, the stakes are high, and the excitement is undeniable. Jannik Sinner’s return is not just a personal milestone; it’s a significant moment for tennis fans everywhere, marking the comeback of a player who has quickly become a household name.
With a history of thrilling performances and a bright future ahead, today’s match against Mariano Navone will be a pivotal moment in Sinner’s career. The tennis world watches closely as he steps back into the spotlight, eager to see if he can regain his rhythm and continue his ascent in the sport.
