Tyra Grant's debut at the WTA 1000 in Rome came to a heartbreaking end on May 7, 2025, as the young Italian-American tennis star fell to Croatia's Antonia Ruzic in a thrilling first-round match. Grant, who recently switched her allegiance from the United States to Italy, fought valiantly but ultimately lost with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 after nearly two hours and forty minutes of intense play.
In front of a lively crowd at the Centrale del Foro Italico, Grant showcased her talent and determination, igniting the audience's support from the very first game. The 17-year-old, ranked 335th in the world, started strong, taking the first set 6-3 against the more experienced Ruzic, who is ranked 117th. However, the match took a turn in the second set as Ruzic rallied back, breaking Grant's serve and leveling the match.
As the final set unfolded, Grant appeared to be on the verge of victory, leading 5-3 and holding two match points in the tenth game. The crowd roared in anticipation, but Ruzic displayed remarkable resilience, saving both match points and turning the tide. Ruzic won four consecutive games to clinch the match, leaving Grant with a mix of disappointment and pride.
Despite the loss, Grant's performance was a testament to her potential. "I feel much more Italian than American," she said before the match, reflecting her commitment to her new national identity. The young player, born in Rome to an Italian mother and an American father, had previously represented the United States at the junior level. This match marked only her second appearance in a main draw of a major professional tour, following her debut loss in Miami earlier this year.
The match statistics reveal the close nature of the contest. Grant hit 1.3 aces per match on average in the 2025 season compared to Ruzic's 1.7, and both players faced several break points throughout the match. Ruzic has been more successful in this regard, winning 43 break points this season, while Grant has won only 9. These numbers highlight the experience gap that played a crucial role in the match's outcome.
Throughout the match, Grant exhibited flashes of brilliance, particularly with her powerful forehand, but also showed signs of inexperience in crucial moments. The support from the crowd was palpable, with fans rallying behind the young star as she navigated the ups and downs of her first match as an Italian player.
Ruzic's victory means she will advance to the second round, where she will face Canada's Leylah Fernandez. For Grant, the loss is a bitter pill to swallow, especially given her earlier victory over Ruzic in the ITF tournament in Porto just months prior. This match, however, serves as a learning experience for the promising athlete, who is expected to continue developing her skills on the professional circuit.
As the match concluded, the applause from the audience echoed through the arena, a recognition of Grant's effort and a glimpse into her bright future. "It was a tough match, but I know I can come back stronger," Grant stated post-match, embodying the spirit of a competitor ready to learn and grow.
In summary, Tyra Grant's debut at the Internazionali d'Italia was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing her potential alongside the realities of professional tennis. As she continues to adapt to her new role representing Italy, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this young talent evolves in the coming tournaments.
