The 82nd edition of the Internazionali BNL d'Italia International Tennis Tournament has begun at the Foro Italico, and the clay court has returned to Piazza del Popolo. The pre-qualification matches for both men and women are being held on a red clay court set up in the Piazza del Popolo. The main tournment, however, is taking place at the Foro Italico. The Internazionali BNL d’Italia 2025 is one of the most highly anticipated events in the world tennis calendar. As usual, the tournament is held at the Foro Italico in Rome and brings together the top players from the ATP and WTA circuits, solidifying its status as a key event of the clay court season in preparation for Roland Garros. With a unique atmosphere combining history, sport, and entertainment, this edition promises thrilling moments, including the return of our number one player, Jannik Sinner, and intense competition that will attract fans from around the globe until the final on May 18.
The Italian Open Tennis Tournament is an important warm-up event for the French Open and lasts for two weeks. Both the qualifying and main matches take place against the stunning backdrop of Rome. The tournament features Piazza del Popolo in the heart of the city and the Foro Italico sports complex, known for its architectural grandeur adorned with marble statues and impressive colonnades.Both locals and tourists will have the chance to watch exhibitions, training sessions, and matches for free. The success of last year's event, which garnered international attention, led the local council to host this tournament once again in Piazza del Popolo. This initiative brings the excitement of professional tennis to the streets, squares, and shop windows of Rome, allowing the entire city to participate. Last year, in the shadow of the obelisk, athletes competed and practiced in this unique and picturesque setting, not only during the pre-qualifying rounds but throughout the tournament. The red clay of Piazza del Popolo served as the stage for exhibitions and training sessions featuring top tennis champions. In 2024, an overwhelming crowd showed up to watch Rafael Nadal, with thousands of fans waiting for hours to see the Spanish champion train for free. This year, organizers are expecting more than 400,000 spectators, including 40,000 tourists from abroad. These visitors will support local businesses and services, generating new jobs and providing a significant economic boost projected to exceed 615 million in 2024.
If you’re looking for places to eat near the Foro Italico between matches, here are some great options.
Bistrot 64 – Founded by Emanuele Cozzo in 2013, this restaurant is now helmed by the talented chef Giacomo Zezza. The menu features Italian ingredients with some oriental influences that appeal to a wide audience. Though the menu is concise—offering three appetizers, three first courses, three traditional pasta dishes, three main courses, and three desserts—it’s highly recommended to try their two tasting menus. Don’t miss their Pici with butter, anchovies, and nduja. Location: Via Guglielmo Calderini 64. Carter Oblio - just steps from the Foro Italico, this minimalistic and elegant restaurant is known for its modern flair and bold flavor combinations. Chef Ciro Alberto Cucciniello focuses on cooking techniques and uses house-made pasta, bread, dried and fermented products, and sausages. Location: Via Giuseppe Gioacchino Belli, 21.
Osteria Mamma Mia – A hidden gem, this cozy spot attracts both locals and visitors with its rustic setting, featuring arches, exposed brick, and colorful wooden chairs. Enjoy classic Roman dishes such as artichoke carpaccio, meatballs, amatriciana, and gricia. Location: Via Masolino da Panicale 24a. Or if you feel more like a pizza, there is Sant’Isidoro Pizza&Bolle Prati – This is the first location of the Pizza&Bolle group, known for its excellent contemporary Neapolitan pizza crafted by pizza chef Giovanni Nesi, supported by chef Francesco Azzaretto. The restaurant also boasts a varied selection of bubbly drinks, including Champagne and classic methods. Among the standout pizzas are the 3 Pomodori+1 and the delicious Capricciosa. Location: Via Oslavia 41.
Or if you are after breakfast and just great coffee, the Sciascia Caffè – a well-known name in the capital, this café near Piazza Mazzini upholds its longstanding tradition of quality coffee roasting. In addition to coffee, the menu offers a range of options from breakfast to aperitifs, including pastries, savory dishes, and heartier lunch options. Location: Via Sabotino 33.
Write a comment