As the tennis circuit arrives in Rome, a city renowned for its historical significance and host to major events, the Internazionali BNL d’Italia tournament takes center stage. Much like other important processes unfolding in the Eternal City, the competition among the world`s best players carries immense weight, making every victory here particularly meaningful.
The tournament features a star-studded field, with nearly every player from the WTA Top 50 set to compete. All eyes will be on World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, fresh off consecutive WTA 1000 titles, including the recent event on the clay courts of Madrid. Challenging her will be World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, a formidable force on clay and a three-time champion in Rome over the past four years.
Top Players in Focus
The field includes several key contenders:
- No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka: Coming off a Madrid win, she aims for her first Rome title. (Best Rome result: Finalist 2024)
- No. 2 Iga Swiatek: The defending champion seeks to rebound after a loss in Madrid. (Best Rome results: Champion 2024, 2022, 2021)
- No. 3 Coco Gauff: Showing improved form on clay, reaching the Madrid final with significant wins. (Best Rome results: Semifinalist 2024, 2021)
- No. 4 Jessica Pegula: Had success on green clay but looks to find consistency on red clay. (Best Rome result: Quarterfinalist 2021)
- No. 5 Jasmine Paolini: The home favorite hopes to make a deep run in her sixth appearance. (Best Rome result: Round of 32 in 2020)
- No. 6 Madison Keys: A seasoned participant making her 11th appearance. (Best Rome result: Finalist 2016)
- No. 7 Mirra Andreeva: Seeking a breakthrough performance after reaching the semifinals at Roland Garros last year. (Best Rome result: Round of 128 in 2024)
- No. 8 Zheng Qinwen: Looks for a strong showing on clay after a slow start to the season on the surface. (Best Rome results: Quarterfinalist 2024, 2023)
- No. 9 Emma Navarro: Enters the tournament looking to advance past the early rounds. (Best Rome result: Round of 64 in 2024)
- No. 10 Paula Badosa: Her participation remains uncertain due to injury. (Best Rome result: Quarterfinalist 2023)
Intriguing First-Round Matches
Keep an eye on these compelling matchups in the opening round:
- Naomi Osaka vs. Sara Errani
- Marketa Vondrousova vs. Wang Xinyu
- Dayana Yastremska vs. Anastasia Potapova
Players Making Their Mark or Returning
Naomi Osaka comes to Rome with a significant boost in confidence after winning a clay-court title recently, her first title in five years. Her ranking has improved, signaling a return to form, particularly on a surface she has historically found challenging.
Several players are in the main draw using special or protected rankings, including Petra Kvitova, Bianca Andreescu, and Anastasija Sevastova. Sevastova, in particular, showed impressive performances in Madrid, overcoming higher-ranked opponents as she continues her comeback journey.
A Look Back at Rome`s Rich History
The Internazionali BNL d’Italia boasts a long and distinguished history. Chris Evert holds the record for the most women`s singles titles with five, followed by Conchita Martinez, Gabriela Sabatini, and Serena Williams, who each have four. Serena Williams also leads the Open Era in match wins with 44. Achieving the Madrid and Rome titles in the same season is a rare feat, accomplished by only three women: Dinara Safina, Serena Williams, and Iga Swiatek. Aryna Sabalenka has the opportunity to join this exclusive group this year. The tournament has seen champions across generations, from the youngest winner Tracy Austin (16) to the oldest, Serena Williams (34).
A Change of Colors
A notable storyline this year is 17-year-old Tyra Grant, a highly-rated junior player, who will represent Italy after previously competing under the United States flag. Born in Rome and raised near Milan, Grant is a promising talent to watch in her first-round match.
Qualifying Round Highlights
The qualifying rounds will determine the final dozen players entering the main draw. Top seeds include Katie Volynets and Anna Blinkova. A surprising participant is 35-year-old Alize Cornet, who returns to competition after previously announcing retirement plans.
Other Players to Watch
- Alexandra Eala: The rising 19-year-old Filipina recently challenged top players, including a notable match against Iga Swiatek.
- Petra Kvitova: The two-time Wimbledon champion continues her return from maternity leave, seeking her first win of the season.
- Anastasija Sevastova: Showed promising form in Madrid, securing wins against tough opponents as she makes her comeback.
Statistical Leaders from 2024
Looking back at last year`s event provides insights into player performance:
- Jelena Ostapenko led in winners (150).
- Aryna Sabalenka saved the most break points (30) and executed the most successful drop shots (17), also spending the most time on court.
- Coco Gauff won the most points at the net (50).
Jasper Hawthorne 
Dominic Ashworth