Andrea Pellegrino is the embodiment of the ATP’s decision to expand the Masters 1000 events to two weeks. The changes allow players who might not usually receive such attention to make their mark. Pellegrino, at 29, is experiencing a career-changing tournament, especially financially.
Pellegrino’s Path to the Round of 16
Pellegrino qualified for the tournament. He defeated Landaluce in a heated atmosphere. Pellegrino’s solid game on the Roman clay has been amplified by the support of the local fans. He capitalised on Arthur Fils’s retirement. He then overcame Frances Tiafoe.
Reaching the round of 16 at a Masters 1000 event is an unexpected achievement for Pellegrino. He had never previously passed a Grand Slam qualifying round. His reward is a match against Jannik Sinner.
A Previous Encounter with Sinner
In 2019, Jannik Sinner played in Santa Margherita di Pula. Sinner won his first Challenger in Bergamo shortly before this. Sinner progressed to the final against Andrea Pellegrino, where he won 6-1, 6-1. Now, seven years later, they meet again at the Foro Itálico.
Pellegrino recalls being beaten badly in their previous match.