As Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner readies himself for a grand return following his suspension, all eyes are on the Rome Masters 1000, the tournament that will mark his comeback. Notably, Sinner, ranked world No.1, missed last year’s edition due to a hip injury and has never advanced past the quarterfinals in this competition.
The anticipation surrounding Sinner’s participation is palpable, particularly in light of his three-month suspension, the result of an agreement with WADA that became public last week. The 23-year-old Sesto Pusteria native is not just aiming to compete but hopes to seize his first-ever Rome Masters 1000 title, replicating the triumph he experienced amidst his home crowd at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin in November 2024.
Adding to the excitement, the Foro Italico, the venue of the tournament, is set to undergo expansion starting from the 2025 edition. This development promises to enhance the spectator experience, making Sinner’s potential victory even more memorable.
In the run-up to the tournament, FITP president Angelo Binaghi has expressed his eagerness to celebrate Sinner’s return in grand style. In a conversation with ‘Il Corriere della Sera’, Binaghi unveiled an ambitious plan for Sinner’s re-entry into Rome’s tennis scene in May.
Binaghi shared that Sinner will be granted the unique privilege of playing inside the ‘Stadio dei Marmi’ for the first time in history. His return is expected to be an extravagant affair, not just for him but for the many other Italian players participating in the tournament.
In addition, Binaghi has arranged for a personal suite for Jannik, an exclusive space accessible only by him and his family. This private enclave will serve as Sinner’s sanctuary at the Foro Italico, where he can eat, rest, and sleep.
Sinner, a three-time Grand Slam champion, will complete his suspension on May 4. This will allow him sufficient time to prepare for the Rome tournament, which will also serve as a precursor to Roland Garros. As the countdown to Sinner’s return begins, the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling tournament steeped in anticipation and high stakes.