Fabio Fognini's Foro farewell as Jacob Fearnley ruins all-Italian Round 2 clash
For anyone who had a ticket to Thursday evening's matches at the Foro Italico in Rome, it will be etched into their lifelong memories – and not just because of the tennis!
The eventful evening was dramatic, surreal and auspicious for many reasons, as contrary to usual convention, breaking news was broadcast live on the giant screens on the grounds of the Foro Italico.
Crowds of tennis fans quickly gathered to watch a live stream of history being made at the Vatican – just 3.5km away, as thick white smoke dramatically billowed from the Sistine Chapel's chimney, signalling the
election of a new pope.
This happened barely an hour before Italian veteran Fabio Fognini was due on court to face British No 2 Jacob Fearnley.
Fabio Fognini had said that this would be his final appearance at Internazionali BNL d'Italia.
The former world No 9 was looking for his first ATP Tour win of 2025 to book an all-Italian meeting with No 29 seed Matteo Berrettini in the second round.
There was even an unexpected short break during the match, when spectators on court Campo Centrale were given the news that Robert Prevost had been elected as the new Pope Leo XIV.
On an evening blessed with news of a new pope, it was unfortunately not as auspicious for Fognini.
Despite having a brief lead at the start of the first and second sets, Fearnley was too strong, particularly on his service points won (60%, against Fognini's 47%), and break points saved.
Despite the straight-sets win in 1 hour 20 minutes (6-2, 6-3), Fearnley spoke afterwards of how he felt it was a tough match due to having to play an experienced player like Fognini.
Fearnley will once again face a home crowd in his second round, as he faces Berrettini next.
Amisha Savani is reporting exclusively for The South African from the Internazionali BNL d'Italia at the Foro Italico, Rome.
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