World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka kicked off her 2025 Italian Open campaign with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 victory over Russia’s Anastasia Potapova in the second round, extending her clay-court winning streak to seven matches. The match, played under the bright morning sun at the Foro Italico, was a deliberate choice by the Belarusian star, who revealed a charming reason for opting for an 11 a.m. start over an evening slot: a desire to savor Rome’s culinary delights and vibrant streets. In just 63 minutes, Sabalenka showcased her evolving game and infectious enthusiasm for the Eternal City, setting the stage for a deep run at one of her favorite tournaments.
Sabalenka’s decision to play in the morning was as strategic off the court as her performance was on it. “I had a chance to play at 7 p.m. or 11 a.m., and I chose 11,” she shared with a grin, “because I want to go for dinner and have pasta or pizza.” Her love for Rome’s culture shone through as she added, “I will definitely go out for dinner and walk around the city. It’s an incredibly beautiful place.” This choice reflected not just her confidence in adapting to the morning conditions but also her eagerness to immerse herself in Rome’s allure, from its historic cobblestone streets to its world-famous cuisine. “I love being in Rome,” she told the crowd, her voice brimming with excitement. “You guys are amazing. Thank you so much.”
On the court, Sabalenka was all business, navigating the unique challenges of Rome’s clay, where the ball bounces lower than in Madrid, where she recently claimed her third title. “I had to figure out the court and how I can use my game in the best way on this surface,” she explained. Her solution? A masterful blend of power and finesse, with 18 winners and a series of deft drop shots that have become a hallmark of her evolving style. Landing 70% of her first serves and winning 80% of those points, she dismantled Potapova’s defenses with ease. The victory, her ninth on clay this season against just one loss, underscored her growing comfort on the surface despite a historically modest 2-4 record in Rome prior to last year’s semifinal run.
The match wasn’t without its lighter moments. As Sabalenka crossed the bridge from Court Centrale to the media terrace, she was greeted by a chorus of “Aryna! Aryna!” from adoring fans. She paused to wave, pose, and snap a photo of the moment, her charisma captivating the crowd. Moments later, she shared a playful exchange with Potapova, who jokingly flashed a middle finger at her conqueror. “If she beat me, I would probably do the same,” Sabalenka laughed, highlighting the camaraderie that defines her relationships off the court.
Sabalenka’s next challenge is a third-round clash with Sofia Kenin, the former Australian Open champion who upset her in Rome two years ago. “It’s a good opportunity for a good revenge,” Sabalenka said with determination, recalling that 7-6(4), 6-2 defeat. Kenin, fresh off a 6-3, 6-0 rout of Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, presents a formidable test, but Sabalenka’s current form—bolstered by titles in Brisbane, Miami, and Madrid—makes her a daunting opponent. With 11,118 ranking points, nearly 3,500 ahead of Iga Swiatek, she holds a firm grip on the No. 1 spot.
As Sabalenka prepares for her next match, her affection for Rome fuels her ambition. “I’m super happy to be back in Rome,” she said, eyeing a deep run. “Hopefully, I can stay here till the very last stages.” With her blend of power, precision, and a newfound love for drop shots, coupled with her zest for Rome’s pizza and pasta, Sabalenka is poised to make this tournament a memorable chapter in her stellar 2025 season.
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