Fognini announces "last dance" in Rome

Fabio Fognini announced that this year will be his last time in the Rome Masters. He said in an interview with Tennis Channel:

"I have been here since I was a child, thinking in my heart, 'Oh, look, I hope I can play here one day'. Now, my career is heading in the opposite direction. I think it's time to say goodbye to this beautiful and special city. But yes, I will come here with a smile because I know that in 15 years, or 16 or 20 years, I have had a very difficult time in Rome, and I want to enjoy this last dance."

Feganini's record in Rome was 16 wins and 17 losses. The soon-to-be-38-year-old player first competed in the clay event in 2006, and he achieved his best in 2018 and reached the quarter-finals.

The former ATP No. 9 player reviewed his achievements in the Italian capital ahead of his last appearance this week.

Feganini said: "There is one game that must be special, that is to defeat Andy Murray, the world's No. 1 at the time, at night." In 2017, Foganini defeated Murray 6-2, 6-4 in Rome.

"This game has a special place in my heart, especially in Rome. I think it is one of the most important wins of my career."

He said:

I live for such a moment. That's my personality. I play with passion, sometimes even too passionate. But I think the audience was happy to see me beat Andy when I played at the best level in Rome. I have also beaten Gail (Memphis), beat Tsonga, and beat many excellent players. Of course, my dream since childhood is to win the championship here. But honestly, I have the opportunity to tell Federico (his son) and my two daughters that I have played against Roger, Rafa, Andy, Novak, and this part of my career is really special.

Feganini is one of the most unique existences in the tennis world. He was born on May 24, 1987, only two days younger than Djokovic. He fully demonstrated the laziness, chicness and agility in his character on the court. He won nine tour titles, including the 2019 Monte Carlo Masters.

Fognini, who will compete as a wild card player, will face Jacob Feinley in the first round on Thursday, and is struggling to win his first tour victory since last October. If he advances, he will face compatriot Matteo Berretini in the second round.

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