Furlan’s Bold Claim: “Sinner Is a Span Above All,” Musetti and Paolini Tipped to Shine at Italian Open
Rome, May 6, 2025 – As the Internazionali BNL d’Italia kicks off at Rome’s Foro Italico, former Italian tennis star Renzo Furlan has ignited excitement with a bold proclamation: world No. 1 Jannik Sinner is “a span above all,” while compatriots Lorenzo Musetti and Jasmine Paolini have the potential to claim titles on home soil. Furlan’s comments, made in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, come as Italy’s tennis renaissance reaches fever pitch, with Sinner’s return from a three-month doping ban and a strong Italian contingent vying for glory at the prestigious ATP and WTA Masters 1000 event.
Sinner’s Triumphant Return
Jannik Sinner, the 23-year-old reigning Australian Open and U.S. Open champion, headlines the tournament as the top seed and defending world No. 1. His return after a doping suspension—stemming from an accidental contamination by clostebol in March 2024—has captivated fans, with local headlines dubbing it “Habemus Sinner,” a nod to the papal election phrase. Furlan, a former world No. 19, praised Sinner’s dominance, stating, “Jannik is a span above all. His power, mentality, and consistency set him apart. Rome will be his stage to reclaim his rhythm.” Sinner, who last competed in January, winning his second consecutive Australian Open, faces Argentina’s Mariano Navone or Italian Federico Cina in his opener. His sold-out practice session on Campo Centrale drew 10,500 spectators, underscoring his rock-star status. Tennis365 predicts Sinner as the favorite to win the men’s title, citing his 65-6 record in 2024 and seven titles, including three Grand Slams.
Musetti’s Moment to Shine
Lorenzo Musetti, now ranked No. 9 after a semifinal run in Madrid and a runner-up finish in Monte-Carlo, is another focal point. The 23-year-old, known for his artistic one-handed backhand, has broken into the ATP top 10, becoming the sixth Italian to do so since 1973. Furlan sees Musetti as a dark horse, noting, “Lorenzo has the talent to win in Rome. His clay-court game is sublime, and with Sinner drawing attention, he can play freely.” Musetti, who starts against Hamad Medjedovic or a qualifier, faces a potential fourth-round clash with Daniil Medvedev. Despite former French Open champion Adriano Panatta’s skepticism—claiming Musetti “won’t be a new Sinner” due to a lack of breakthrough wins—Musetti’s recent form, including a Wimbledon semifinal and Olympic bronze, suggests otherwise. Posts on X, like those from @TennisConnected, highlight his “electric” play, fueling optimism for a deep run.
Paolini’s Rising Star
On the women’s side, Jasmine Paolini, ranked No. 5, carries Italy’s hopes after a stellar 2024 that saw her reach the French Open and Wimbledon finals, win Olympic doubles gold with Sara Errani, and lead Italy to the Billie Jean King Cup title. Furlan believes Paolini, at 5’3” a dynamo of energy, can upset top seeds like Iga Świątek or Aryna Sabalenka. “Jasmine’s speed and heart make her a threat on clay. She’s ready to win a big one in Rome,” he said. Paolini, who faces a tough draw with potential clashes against Świątek or Sabalenka, has inspired fans with her grit, as noted by The Athletic for her “folk hero” status at Wimbledon. Her 2024 record, including a Dubai title and 17-match win streak, bolsters her credentials.
A Golden Era for Italian Tennis
The Italian Open, running through May 18, is poised to capitalize on Italy’s tennis boom, with 12 Italians in the main draws and an expected economic impact exceeding €615 million. Sinner’s absence of Novak Djokovic, a six-time champion, and Rafael Nadal’s retirement open the door for new winners, while Musetti and Paolini join Matteo Berrettini, Matteo Arnaldi, and others in showcasing Italy’s depth. The New York Times noted the “remarkable rise” of Italian tennis, with seven men in the top 50 and three top doubles teams. Furlan’s optimism reflects this momentum: “This is our moment. Sinner leads, but Musetti and Paolini can make history.”
As Rome buzzes with anticipation, the question looms: can Sinner solidify his supremacy, or will Musetti or Paolini steal the spotlight? With the French Open looming, the Italian Open is set to be a defining moment for Italy’s tennis stars.
Sources: La Gazzetta dello Sport, The New York Times, The Athletic, Tennis365, ATP Tour, FIRSTonline, X posts