Fognini reflects on Rome career after Fearnley defeat

Jacob Fearnley put an end to Fabio Fognini’s career at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome on Thursday evening.

The Briton weathered a raucous crowd in the Italian capital, rallying from a break down in each set to prevail 6-2, 6-3 in 80 minutes. Fognini announced earlier in the week that this year, his 18th appearance in Rome, would be his last.

“I knew playing such an experienced and great player like Fabio, I had to up my game in order to win,” said Fearnley. “It’s a really special night for me to be on court with Fabio in his last match, really special.

“The Italian fans are amazing. I knew they would be all towards Fabio, so it was nothing but respect. It was an electric atmosphere, an amazing one to play in.”

Gave it his all, but came up short today.

Thank you for all the memories in Rome, @fabiofogna 🫶@InteBNLdItalia | #IBI25 pic.twitter.com/eTUPtP8ODU

— ATP Tour (@atptour) May 8, 2025

The former No. 9 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Fognini has had some memorable wins at the Italian ATP Masters 1000 during his career. He notably defeated World No. 1 Andy Murray in the second round in 2017, and reached the quarter-finals — his best run — the following year.

“I love them,” Fognini said of the Italian fans. “I would like to be remembered for [being] a guy who showed passion, sometimes too much passion, on the court. That’s the way I was, I was feeling my work, feeling the tennis, feeling it in my veins.

“I’m happy to say that I almost played with three generations. I played with [Carlos] Moya, Juan Carlos Ferrero, [Marat] Safin…. Then the ‘Big Three’ generation. So many great memories. I also had the opportunity to play against Jannik [Sinner] and Carlos [Alcaraz]. It was really tough to win, but I’m happy because that’s something I will remember for life.

“If I look back, I have really good memories, but it’s a page that’s finished. I am almost 38, I have a beautiful family. Now it’s time to give them all my support and it’s time for the babies.”

Most Men's Singles Appearances in Rome (Open Era) 

"For sure it’s emotional, because she’s [been there] through my career,” Fognini said of his wife, Flavia. “Especially the last few years, which have been really bad. I had a lot of injuries. This year was more difficult than ever, I started playing in March and didn’t win many matches.”

Competing in just his third ATP Tour event on clay, Fearnley dropped serve in the first game of each set. Yet the 23-year-old produced an instant response and was able to outlast the Italian from the back of the court. Fearnley also remained composed amid the boisterous atmosphere inside the Foro Italico.

#NextGenATP Learner Tien came through a nail-biting first-round clash with countryman Reilly Opelka, triumphing 6-4, 7-6(11) to reach the second round. The 19-year-old led 5/0 in the second-set tie-break before Opelka sparked hopes of a comeback.

Tien, who was forced to save three set points, eventually converted his fourth match point, according to Infosys ATP Stats. He will next face Tomas Machac, who won their first Lexus ATP Head2Head clash in Acapulco.