‘The Roof Is Coming’ – Daniil Medvedev and Elena Rybakina’s Rain-Hit Wins Guide Rome Open Organizers to Finally Make a Much-Needed Announcement

The organizers of the recent rain-hit Rome Open have recently announced a groundbreaking decision. They have decided to add a retractable roof to the tournament’s center court. Both the men’s and women’s final matches were disrupted by a series of weather-related disruptions. Sport e Salute, the Italian government agency, has approved the construction of this futuristic feature.

This long-awaited announcement comes as a welcome relief to players and fans alike. The impact of the unfavorable weather was aggravated during the men’s final between Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Saturday’s downpour caused a six hours difference between the first and last point played in the encounter. The disruption left players and spectators alike feeling frustrated.

After rains hit Daniil Medvedev vs Stefanos Tsitsipas match, Rome Open organizers make an important decision

Despite the adversity, both players showed remarkable resilience and tenacity. Ultimately, Medvedev emerged victorious, clinching the hard-won match and cementing his place in Rome Open history. In the women’s final between Elena Rybakina and Anhelina Kalinina, the inclement weather conditions forced a long delay, causing the match to span into the night. Both players exhibited tremendous adaptability and fortitude. Rybakina dominated on the court before Kalinina faced a costly injury and was forced to retire, resulting in Rybakina’s victory.

The decision to add a retractable roof to the tournament’s center court is a momentous occasion. Sport e Salute CEO Vito Cozzoli shared his enthusiasm for the plan. He noted that the new addition would make the Foro Italico’s center court usable all year round. It will provide regular play for players and uninterrupted games for fans, despite the unfavorable weather.

In the press conference, the event organizers announced that the roof will be installed by 2026. Cozzoli expressed his excitement about the forthcoming futuristic project that will ensure the year-round usability of Foro Italico’s center court. He shared, ” The roof is coming.” 

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The roof construction is estimated to take around 10 months. The construction phase itself will last from 18 to 24 months, with breaks for the 2024 and 2025 tournaments to make way for vital work.

Medvedev had the time of his life with his title win

In the face of unrelenting rain, Medvedev was still able to display his exceptional clay-court skills en route to his spot in the ATP Masters final. He managed to vanquish his rival, Tsitsipas 7-5, 7-5 during the semi-finals of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. In three attempts prior, Medvedev had been unsuccessful in claiming victory in Rome; however, things took a positive turn for him this year. During a heavy rain-influenced semi-final, Medvedev showcased a steady game, utilizing powerful groundstrokes and successful drop shots. His efforts earned him the win after almost two hours of play. It secured him a spot in his first ATP Masters 1000 championship match on a clay court.

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Medvedev’s luck in the Italian Open took a dramatic turn for the better this year. He emerged victorious in the final against 20-year-old Holger Rune from Denmark, winning 7-5, 7-5. This triumph in the realm of clay courts only adds to Medvedev’s already remarkable career.