


Round two of the Rome Masters begins on Friday and there are a couple of United States vs. Italy showdowns on the schedule. Taylor Fritz faces Fabio Fognini, while Sebastian Korda goes up against Flavio Cobolli.
(11) Taylor Fritz vs. (WC) Fabio Fognini
Fognini is making his final appearance at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia and is off to a good start. The 36-year-old Italian won his first-round match against Dan Evans in a 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 decision. Fognini’s four ATP-level victories this season include a quarterfinal run in Marrakech at the beginning of the clay-court swing.
Taylor Fritz awaits Fognini on Friday for their third meeting. The head-to-head series is tied at 1-1, with Fritz quietly effective on clay and playing stellar tennis this spring. Fritz is the favorite against Fognini, who is coming off a tough three-setter and dealing with a calf problem.
Pick: Fritz in 2
Flavio Cobolli vs. (24) Sebastian Korda
Cobolli is hoping to bring some excitement to the Foro Italico as Jannik Sinner is sidelined with a hip injury. The 21-year-old has had success in 2024 and is up to No. 57 in the rankings. Cobolli opened in Rome by beating Maximilian Marterer 6-4, 6-2.
Up first for Cobolli on Friday is Korda, whom the Italian has never faced. Korda is the favorite on paper but has been inconsistent in recent months. Cobolli is in good form and playing in front of the home crowd, giving him a great chance for victory.
Pick: Cobolli in 3