Jannik Sinner became the first Italian man in 50 years to win the Italian Open in Rome, defeating Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4. The world number one recovered from a slow start to overpower the 23rd seed, securing his place in tennis history.
Sinner is only the second man to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles, a feat first achieved by Novak Djokovic in 2018. At 24, Sinner has completed the set, extending his record for consecutive Masters 1000 wins to six, and becoming the first man to win the first five in a season.
He is also the only player other than Rafael Nadal in 2010 to win all three clay-court Masters 1000 titles in a year. The victory marks the first Italian triumph in Rome since Adriano Panatta in 1976.
“There’s no better place to complete this set,” said Sinner. “It has been a very interesting tournament. To win at least once in my career means a lot to me.” Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Panatta presented the trophy.
Sinner will head to Roland Garros as a strong favourite, despite seeking his first title. His dominance continues in the absence of Carlos Alcaraz, with no player able to consistently challenge him.
