The Italian Open has revealed its impressive new triple stadium facility as part of its ambition to be elevated to the status of a fifth Grand Slam tournament.
Set to begin on May 6, the Italian Open in Rome is currently a prestigious ATP Masters 1000 event, the level directly below the four major Grand Slams.
Its famous clay courts already make it a highlight on the tennis calendar and a popular spot for fans.
Now, visitors have even more reason to head to the Foro Italico tennis center, which has gained three new courts.
Two new stadiums were constructed adjacent to the Stadio Olimpico, home ground for football clubs Roma and Lazio, built directly on top of an existing athletics track and field area.
The original track and the surrounding amphitheatre-style seating remain, allowing the complex to function as a unique triple stadium.
This expansion has increased the Italian Open site area from 12 to 20 hectares, now featuring nine match courts and 12 practice courts.
The main new court, named the SuperTennis Arena, can accommodate 3,000 spectators.
This significant venue upgrade is expected to bolster the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation (FITP) in its campaign to establish a fifth Grand Slam.
The FITP has reportedly made a substantial £436 million ($55 million) bid aimed at acquiring the calendar slot currently held by the Madrid tournament.
The Mutua Madrid Masters takes place immediately before the Italian Open; in 2025, the Madrid final is on May 4, just two weeks before the Rome final on May 18.
The apparent goal of the FITP is to secure the Madrid tournament`s week in the tennis schedule, thereby expanding the Internazionali BNL d`Italia into a full two-week event, including qualifying and preparation days.
While several Masters tournaments have recently been extended to ten days, only the traditional four Grand Slams—the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open—currently span a full fortnight.
