A journey through the iconic clay courts that host the Italian Open, from the modern Centrale to the historic Pietrangeli. Each venue at the Foro Italico offers a unique history and atmosphere, creating one of tennis's grandest stages.
Every spring, the Italian Open on the ATP Tour transforms Rome's Foro Italico into a global tennis hotspot.
Amidst monumental avenues and marble statues, the world's top players battle it out on the distinctive red clay.
In spite of the names on the court, the tournament's allure extends beyond the star-studded line-up. It lies in its diverse array of courts, each with its own character, history and feel.
The Heart of the Tournament: Stadio Centrale
The heart of the venue is the Stadio Centrale del Tennis, the main facility where the most anticipated matches, including the finals, are played. With a capacity of over 10,500 spectators, it represents the meeting point between modernity and tradition.
Inaugurated in its current form in 2010, Stadio Centrale (Centrer Court) was designed to provide excellent visibility and comfort while maintaining a low architectural profile within the historic Foro Italico complex. This is where the tournament's biggest moments happen, as the drama, tension and spectacle of championship tennis come to a head.
The Second Stage: Grand Stand Arena
Next in line is the Grand Stand Arena, the second-largest stadium with 6,550 seats. Originally built in 2012 and updated in 2019, it is a modern and versatile structure designed to meet various tournament needs.
High-stakes matches are frequently held here, often featuring top-ranked players in the early rounds. The atmosphere is more intimate than on Centre Court, which can often lead to an even more intense and electric fan experience.
The Charm of History: Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli
Among the most iconic venues is the Stadio Nicola Pietrangeli, the oldest court in the complex, first opened in 1934. With 3,720 seats, it is renowned for its unique architecture, featuring Carrara marble steps that descend toward the court, encircled by imposing statues of athletes.
Named after Italian tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli, this stadium is more than just a court; it is a symbol of Italian tennis heritage. Its evocative and intimate setting offers a viewing experience unlike any of the more modern arenas.
A New Addition: SuperTennis Arena at Stadio dei Marmi
One of the most recent additions to the Italian Open is the SuperTennis Arena, a venue with a capacity of around 3,000 that brings tennis into the historic Stadio dei Marmi (Stadium of the Marbles).
This arena has quickly established itself as the tournament's third show court, expanding the event's footprint and offering new perspectives for spectators. The surrounding area also includes additional courts with smaller stands, further enriching the match schedule.
The Outer Courts: The Tennis Club
Beyond the main stadiums lies the Circolo del Tennis del Foro Italico, often referred to as the "outer courts." This area consists of a collection of clay courts with open-air stands and a combined capacity of approximately 6,000 spectators.
It is here that the tournament reveals its most authentic side. Fans can enjoy up-close action, watch practice sessions, discover emerging talent, and follow less-publicised matches that are often packed with intensity. It's the perfect place to experience the heart and soul of the tournament from just a few feet away.
