• Emma Raducanu expresses optimism and a fresh start approach ahead of her Italian Open campaign, focusing on consistency and aggression.
• Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are set to return at the Italian Open after absences, making it the first proper Roland Garros tune-up.
• Several intriguing first-round matches are highlighted, including Fabio Fognini vs Jacob Fearnley and Nicolas Jarry vs Hugo Gaston.

The 2025 Italian Open, held at the Foro Italico in Rome, is poised to be a significant event in the lead-up to Roland Garros. Key storylines include the return of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, Emma Raducanu's attempt to find form on clay, and the potential for players like Alexander Zverev, Arthur Fils, and Lorenzo Musetti to emerge as contenders. Several compelling first-round matches add to the anticipation.

• What: The 2025 Italian Open is a major tennis tournament on clay, serving as a tune-up for Roland Garros. Key events include player comebacks, first-round matches, and the pursuit of ranking points.
• Who: Key players include Emma Raducanu, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Katie Boulter, Fabio Fognini, and others.
• When: The tournament takes place from May 7-18, 2025.
• Where: The tournament is held at the Foro Italico in Rome, Italy.

The 2025 Italian Open presents several compelling storylines. Emma Raducanu is seeking a fresh start with a focus on aggressive play. The return of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz adds significant excitement, positioning Rome as a crucial preparation ground for Roland Garros. The tournament also provides an opportunity for players like Zverev, Fils, and Musetti to establish themselves as serious contenders. Several first-round matches promise high drama and tactical battles, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

"It does feel like a bit of a fresh start with the way I am approaching everything, with the people I have around, with my mindset and outlook."

"Playing in Rome is a totally different ball game. It can be difficult and tricky to manoeuvre. The courts are heavy, the balls are heavy, and if you play at night, it can be even heavier."

The 2025 Italian Open is poised to be a pivotal tournament, showcasing a compelling blend of returning stars, emerging talents, and high-stakes match-ups, all serving as a crucial form indicator ahead of Roland Garros. Jannik Sinner's return from suspension as the world number one adds significant intrigue, especially as he aims to find his rhythm on clay after a prolonged absence, with potential clashes against Davidovich Fokina, Cerundolo and Casper Ruud looming. Carlos Alcaraz, also returning from injury, faces a challenging draw, potentially meeting tough opponents like Dimitrov, Draper or Rune, and Zverev, testing his resilience and clay-court prowess. Alexander Zverev, the defending champion, seeks to capitalize on his past success in Rome, but faces a difficult path with potential encounters against Tsitsipas, Musetti, and Alcaraz. The women's draw is equally compelling, with Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek leading the charge. Sabalenka, fresh off consecutive WTA 1000 titles, aims to continue her dominance on clay, while Swiatek, the defending champion, looks to fend off challenges from the likes of Collins and Svitolina. The Italian contingent, including Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani, hopes to make a strong impression on home soil. Emerging talents like Mirra Andreeva and Emma Raducanu add further intrigue, promising exciting match-ups and potential upsets. Ultimately, the Italian Open will provide valuable insights into player form and potential narratives heading into Roland Garros, influencing seedings and momentum for the second Grand Slam of the year.