The 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia kicked off at the Foro Italico on May 7, showcasing a thrilling day of tennis that featured both triumphs and setbacks for the Italian players. With the tournament running until May 18, the anticipation was palpable as fans gathered to witness the return of Jannik Sinner, the world number one, following a three-month suspension due to a doping-related incident.
On the men's side, Lorenzo Sonego took to the court for his first-round match against Argentina's Roman Andres Burruchaga. This marked the first meeting between the two players, with Sonego eager to improve his recent form after a disappointing spring season. He had only one victory on clay this year, and the stakes were high as he aimed to redeem himself after reaching the quarter-finals at the Australian Open earlier in the year.
Meanwhile, Sonego's opponent, Burruchaga, had already made his mark at the Internazionali d’Italia by successfully navigating the qualifying rounds. The Argentine, ranked 135th in the world, was coming off a Challenger title win in Piracicaba, Brazil, earlier this season, making for an intriguing matchup.
As the matches commenced, the weather took a turn, leading to a 45-minute suspension due to rain. However, play resumed around 14:00, with the match between Tallon Griekspoor and Miomir Kecmanovic kicking off the action on the Centrale court.
In women's singles, the day was less favorable for Sara Errani, who faced Naomi Osaka, the former world number one. Errani, competing in her 17th main draw at the Internazionali, unfortunately fell short, losing in straight sets 6-2, 6-3. After the match, she expressed her feelings about her performance, stating, "It's not easy to accept that I try to do things but feel that my body doesn't react as I would like, and my shots don't go where I want. But you have to accept it. I had some chances in the second set; it's a pity, I could have done better from the baseline since it was on clay." Errani also announced that 2025 would likely be her last year in singles, with the Roland Garros tournament as her farewell.
Elisabetta Cocciaretto was in action against Elina Avanesyan, aiming to secure a win to advance in the tournament. Cocciaretto's match was pivotal, as a victory would set her up for a potential clash against world number two Iga Swiatek in the next round.
Another Italian player, Arianna Zucchini, made her debut against Canadian Victoria Mboko. Zucchini, ranked 620th in the world, was competing in the main draw thanks to a wildcard secured during pre-qualifications. The match was a significant moment for the young player, and she was eager to make her mark on the circuit.
As the matches unfolded, the excitement continued to build. Lucrezia Stefanini was set to face Veronika Kudermetova, while Federica Urgesi was gearing up for her match against Canadian Bianca Andreescu. The day promised to be a marathon of tennis, with nine Italian players in action.
In the midst of the matches, Fabio Fognini made headlines by announcing that 2025 would be his last year competing at the Internazionali d’Italia. Fognini reflected on his career, stating, "I want to give space to the young players; it’s only right. I’ve had a beautiful career, and I’m happy, but as with all things, there’s a beginning and an end." His decision resonated with fans, who fondly remembered his stunning victory over Andy Murray in 2017.
As the day progressed, the atmosphere at the Foro Italico was electric. Jannik Sinner was set to train later in the day with Taylor Fritz, preparing for his return to competitive play. Sinner, who had faced a tumultuous few months, expressed his eagerness to get back on the court, stating, "I’m just happy to be here. I expect to feel good on the court." His return is highly anticipated, as he aims to break a nearly 50-year drought for Italian men at the Internazionali d’Italia, the last champion being Adriano Panatta in 1976.
The tournament is expected to draw over 400,000 spectators and generate significant economic impact, estimated at over one billion euros. With such high stakes and a lineup of talented players, the Internazionali d’Italia 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event.
As the day concluded, the matches continued to deliver excitement and drama, setting the stage for the upcoming rounds. Fans eagerly awaited the results of their favorite players, hoping for a strong showing from the homegrown talent as they vie for glory on the clay courts of Rome.
