Tennis News:

Rome, Week One

Written by Edda Bevilacqua

Jannik Sinner Returns; Carlos Alcaraz Wins Opening Match

Italy’s Jannik Sinner returned from a three-month doping ban to win his first match at the BNL d’Italia Open in Rome. He defeated Argentina’s Mariano Navone in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4 to claim his first victory since his triumph at the Australian Open. Jannik Sinner said, “Amazing feeling. I have waited quite long for this moment. I am very happy to be back.” Sinner’s next opponent will be Jesper de Jong of the Netherlands, who defeated Spain’s Alejandro Davidovich-Fokina to make the third round.

Carlos Alcaraz won his first-round match in straight sets over Dusan Lajovic of Serbia, 6-3, 6-3. He is hoping for his first victory in Rome. Alcaraz will take on another Serbian player, Laslo Djere, in the third round.

Elina Svitolina Makes Second Week at Rome

Elina Svitolina of Ukraine defeated Hailey Baptiste of the United States in three sets, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, to reach the Round of 16. She will take on another American, Danielle Collins, in the next round. Iga Swiatek lost to Danielle Collins in an upset, as Collins defeated her in straight sets, 6-1, 7-5.