The tennis world’s attention is focused on the Italian capital Rome this week, where – for the first time ever – Tennis Europe Junior Tour players are competing alongside the world’s top professionals at an ATP/WTA 1000 series event.
The main draw of the Category 1 Internazionali D’Italia 16 & Under event kicks off today, with players competing at two locations: the famed Foro Italico stadium, and on a court specially prepared by the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation (FITP) at the Piazza del Popolo, where the public can see the action at one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, with matches scheduled for 11:00 and 15:00.
Tennis Europe CEO Thomas Hammerl said, “In 2023 we focused on delivering a record number of playing opportunities to Junior Tour players, with 490 events in almost all European nations. As part of our strategy we now aim to improve the quality of the top events, aligning with federations and with the ATP and WTA wherever possible to provide juniors the chance to showcase their games on the big stage, shoulder to shoulder with the professionals. We’re extremely grateful to the FITP for providing this unique opportunity.”
This is the first time a Junior Tour event has been officially sanctioned alongside a 1000 series ATP/WTA tournament. In addition to playing at one of the world’s most famous and historic tennis venues, the young players will have access to the players’ lounge and have benefitted from umpires and line judges from the first rounds of qualifying. In addition, some matches will be streamed on the SuperTennis app in Italy.
With the Internazionali D’Italia, Italy continues its long tradition of supporting Junior Tennis at the highest level. The FITP will also host the European 16 & Under Championships in Parma in September.
You can keep up with all the latest draws and results from Rome here.
