Table of Contents
The Internazionali BNL d’Italia, one of the most prestigious clay-court tournaments in tennis, returns to Rome’s Foro Italico from May 6–18, 2025. As the last major ATP/WTA 1000 event before Roland-Garros, the Italian Open attracts the world’s top players, offering thrilling matches, historic rivalries, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The 2025 edition promises to be bigger than ever, with expanded facilities, record prize money, and star-studded lineups featuring defending champions Alexander Zverev (ATP) and Iga Świątek (WTA), as well as home favorite Jannik Sinner, who enters as the World No. 1.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover:
- Tournament history & significance
- 2025 key highlights & venue upgrades
- ATP & WTA draws, schedule, and prize money
- Past champions & records
- How to watch & engage with the event
1.) Tournament Overview: A Historic Clay-Court Showdown
The Internazionali BNL d’Italia (Italian Open) was first held in 1930, making it one of the oldest tournaments in tennis. Originally an ATP-only event, it became a combined ATP & WTA tournament in 2011, elevating its status as a Masters 1000 (ATP) and WTA 1000 event.
- Venue: Foro Italico, Rome (since 1935)
- Surface: Red clay, known for its slow, high-bounce conditions—ideal preparation for the French Open.
- Sponsorship: BNL (Banca Nazionale del Lavoro) has been the title sponsor since 2007.
2025 Dates & Location
- Main Draw: May 6–18, 2025
- Qualifying Rounds: May 5–6
- Finals: May 17 (WTA) & May 18 (ATP)
- Expanded Venue: The 2025 tournament introduces new courts, including the 3,000-seat
SuperTennis Arena, and a 20-hectare fan zone for an enhanced spectator experience.
2.) 2025 Edition Highlights: What’s New?
A.) Venue Upgrades & Fan Experience
The Foro Italico has undergone major expansions for 2025:
- Super Tennis Arena – A new 3,000-seat stadium for early-round matches.
- Lakeside Courts – Scenic practice courts for fans to watch players up close.
- Enhanced Fan Zone – Food, entertainment, and interactive tennis exhibits.
B.) Star Players to Watch
- ATP: Jannik Sinner (World No. 1), Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and defending champion Alexander Zverev.
- WTA: Iga Świątek (3-time Rome winner), Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina.
C. Economic & Cultural Impact
- 400,000+ spectators expected
- €1 billion projected economic boost for Rome
- Global broadcast reach in 180+ countries
3.) Draws & Schedule: Key Matches & Timeline
ATP (Men’s) Draw
- 96-player singles, 32-team doubles
- Top 32 seeds receive a first-round bye
- Draw ceremony: May 5, 2025
WTA (Women’s) Draw
- 96-player singles, 32-team doubles
- Similar format to ATP
- 96-player singles, 32-team doubles
- Similar format to ATP
Key Dates
| Stage | Dates |
| Qualifying | May 5–6 |
| Round 1 | May 6–7 |
| Round 2 | May 8–9 |
| Round 3 | May 10–11 |
| Quarterfinals | May 13–14 |
| Semifinals | May 15–16 |
| WTA Final | May 17 |
| ATP Final | May 18 |
4.) Prize Money & Ranking Points
ATP Prize Pool (€8,000,000+)
| Round | Prize Money (Singles) | Doubles (per team) |
| Winner | €985,000 | €320,000 |
| Finalist | €540,000 | €175,000 |
| Semifinal | €295,000 | €95,000 |
| Quarterfinal | €160,000 | €50,000 |
WTA Prize Pool ($6.9M)
- Winner: $1,000,000
- Finalist: $550,000
Ranking Points:
- Winner: 1000 points (ATP/WTA)
- Finalist: 600 points
5. Past Champions & Records
Men’s Singles (Most Titles)
- Rafael Nadal (10) – The “King of Clay” dominates Rome.
- Novak Djokovic (6) – Defeated Nadal in legendary finals.
- Alexander Zverev (2024 Winner) – Defending champion.
Women’s Singles (Recent Winners)
- Iga Świątek (3 titles: 2021, 2022, 2024) – The current queen of clay.
- Elena Rybakina (2023) – Powerful baseliner.
Unbreakable Records
- Oldest Champion: Rafael Nadal (36, in 2023)
- Youngest Winner: Tracy Austin (16, in 1979)
6.) How to Watch & Engage
Live Broadcast & Streaming
📺 TV: Tennis Channel (USA), Sky Sports (UK), SuperTennis (Italy), Eurosport (Europe)
💻 Streaming: TennisTV (ATP), WTA TV, Amazon Prime (selected regions)
Social Media & Hashtags
🔥 Hashtags: #IBI25 #ItalianOpen
Tickets & Attendance
🎟 Tickets: Available on Vivaticket.it (from €30 for early rounds)
7. ) Why the Italian Open is a Must-Watch
The 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia is set to be the biggest edition yet, with top-tier tennis, a revamped venue, and electrifying matchups. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this tournament is the perfect prelude to the French Open.
Will Jannik Sinner triumph on home soil? Can Świątek claim a fourth title? Or will a new champion emerge? Tune in from May 6–18 to witness history!
8.) Conclusion
The Internazionali BNL d’Italia remains a highlight of the tennis calendar, blending rich tradition with cutting-edge excitement. As the clay-court season heats up, Rome’s Foro Italico stands ready to host the sport’s biggest names, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments. With expanded facilities, a world-class field, and a pivotal place on the road to Roland Garros, the 2025 edition promises drama, spectacle, and history in the making. Whether you’re attending in person or following from afar, the Italian Open is set to deliver another chapter of tennis excellence.
