Jannik Sinner delivered a commanding performance in his opening match at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia 2026, defeating Austria’s Sebastian Ofner in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. The world No. 1, a finalist last year, is chasing history: he aims to become the first Italian to win the Rome title since Adriano Panatta 50 years ago. Victory would also make him only the second player ever—after Novak Djokovic—to conquer all nine ATP Masters 1000 events.
Sinner faced the world No. 82 Sebastian Ofner, whom he had previously beaten in the 2019 Ortisei Challenger final. This was their first meeting on the main ATP tour. The Italian started strongly, breaking in the fourth game to lead 3-1, and closed out the opening set 6-3 after 37 minutes despite Ofner resisting stoutly.
In the second set, Sinner broke immediately in the first game. Ofner fought back, pushing Sinner to deuce for the first time, but the Italian’s first serve proved decisive in critical moments. The Austrian saved break points and held a 60% first-serve percentage with 70% points won, yet Sinner remained composed, never offering a break point.
The match was twice interrupted due to medical incidents in the stands. Both times, spectators recovered and left to applause from the center court crowd. During the second interruption, Sinner complained to his team about poor visibility due to darkness. Play resumed, and he sealed the victory 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 31 minutes, securing his place in the third round.
With this win, Sinner stays on course for his maiden Rome crown and a place in tennis history.
