The Internazionali BNL d’Italia is gearing up to deliver an exhilarating tournament as it returns to Rome from May 6 to May 17, 2026. This prestigious event marks the culmination of the Masters 1000 clay-court season, providing a grand stage for elite players to showcase their talent on the famed red dirt.
Jannik Sinner, currently the top-ranked player in the world, is the centerpiece of this year’s competition. Sinner approaches the tournament with an impressive 28-match winning streak in ATP Masters 1000 events, aiming to capture his sixth consecutive title in this category. A victory for the Italian would be historic, as he would become the first player to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments if he clinches the coveted Rome title.
Notably absent from this year’s tournament is Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion, who is sidelined due to a right wrist injury. Alcaraz’s withdrawal opens up the draw, increasing the stakes for other competitors and paving the way for a new champion to emerge.
The tournament is not just about high-level tennis; it offers an immersive experience with its luxury environment, featuring gourmet dining, upscale fashion boutiques, and celebrity performances that enhance the festival-like atmosphere.
On the women’s side, Italian Jasmine Paolini returns as the reigning champion, while American star Coco Gauff will be looking to improve upon her runner-up finish from the previous year. Both players are expected to attract plenty of attention as they navigate a challenging draw filled with formidable opponents.
Fans can look forward to an action-packed series of matches as competitors vie for the substantial prize purse of €8,235,540. The allure of Rome, combined with the high stakes of the tournament, promises to deliver thrilling moments both on and off the court.
As we move closer to the opening matches, anticipation builds for what is sure to be an unforgettable event in the tennis calendar.
