The 2026 Internazionali d'Italia will be remembered. A week of records and high emotion at the Foro Italico, crowned by two exceptional champions.
On the men's side, Jannik Sinner confirmed his total dominance. His sixth consecutive Masters 1000 title, earned against Casper Ruud in the final (6-4, 6-4), allowed him to complete the Career Golden Masters and extend his winning streak at this level to 34 matches. His path included a gripping semifinal against Daniil Medvedev, interrupted by rain before swinging in the Italian's favour.
Ruud leaves Rome with reasons to be satisfied. After a commanding semifinal win over Luciano Darderi, the Norwegian secured a top-16 seed at Roland-Garros. At 27, he remains one of the most consistent clay-court players on tour.
On the women's side, Elina Svitolina produced a masterful run. Defeating Coco Gauff in the final for a third Rome title, the Ukrainian now boasts an 8-0 record in clay-court finals. Her semifinal victory over Iga Swiatek reignited debate over the women's clay-court hierarchy.
Gauff departs Rome with valuable lessons. A finalist for the second consecutive year, the American said she had "been through every possible scenario" ahead of Roland-Garros, where she will defend her title.
The tournament also showcased the power of the next generation. Mirra Andreeva, 19, reached 50 WTA 1000 wins and claimed the doubles title with Diana Shnaider. Sorana Cirstea, a surprise quarterfinalist after defeating Aryna Sabalenka, delivered one of her final great moments before an announced retirement.
Next stop: Paris. The Internazionali d'Italia reshuffled the deck and set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling Roland-Garros.
