Fabio Fognini, the 38-year-old Italian tennis icon, has scheduled a press conference at Wimbledon for 1:30pm today, where he is widely expected to announce his immediate retirement from professional tennis. Originally planning to retire at the end of 2025, Fognini now appears ready to bring forward his departure after a dramatic and emotionally charged five-set match against Carlos Alcaraz in the first round. The decision seems to stem from a desire to end his career on a high note, having delivered one of his most memorable performances on Centre Court.

A Match That Stirred the Heart (image)

The clash with Alcaraz was nothing short of epic. Over four hours and 37 minutes, Fognini pushed the defending Wimbledon champion to the brink, showcasing grit, flair, and the kind of brilliance that defined his career. Despite entering the match on a ten-match losing streak and ranked outside the top 100, Fognini defied expectations, winning two sets and forcing a fifth. His emotional reaction afterward—tears in the locker room and heartfelt reflections—suggested that this match might be his final bow.

Respect from a Rising Star (image)

Carlos Alcaraz, who ultimately prevailed in the marathon encounter, was full of admiration for Fognini. He praised the veteran’s level of play and questioned why someone still capable of such performances would choose to retire. “He can still play three or four more years,” Alcaraz said, adding that he felt honored to share the court with such a talented and passionate competitor. The mutual respect between the two players added a layer of poignancy to the occasion.

A Career of Fire and Flair (image)

Fognini’s career has been marked by dazzling shot-making, fiery temperament, and unforgettable moments. With nine ATP singles titles and a Grand Slam doubles crown to his name, he leaves behind a legacy of unpredictability and brilliance. His wife, Flavia Pennetta, herself a former US Open champion, hinted that Fognini had already made up his mind and would reflect on his future away from the courts with family support.

The Curtain Falls at Wimbledon (image)

As fans await the official announcement, there’s a sense of bittersweet anticipation. Wimbledon, where Fognini made 15 appearances, seems a fitting stage for his final act. Whether today marks the end or simply a turning point, his performance against Alcaraz will be remembered as a powerful closing chapter in a career that never failed to entertain.

Let me know if you’d like a retrospective on his most iconic matches or a highlight reel-style summary of his career.

Alcaraz in Wimbledon, ranking, and results in 2025

Now ranked no.2, Alcaraz achieved a composed 47-5 match record in 2025. Carlos is participating in Wimbledon where he conquered the world no.138 Fabio Fognini 7-5 6-7(5) 7-5 2-6 6-1, the world no.733 Oliver Tarvet 6-1 6-4 6-4, the world no.125 Jan-Lennard Struff 6-1 3-6 6-3 6-4, the world no.14 Andrey Rublev 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 6-4 and the world no.61 Cameron Norrie 6-2 6-3 6-3.

Carlos Alcaraz will take on the world no.5 Taylor Fritz in the semifinal. Their record is 2-0 for Alcaraz.

Alcaraz conquered 5 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open and London. Carlos was the runner-up in Barcelona (Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell).

The Spaniard won 22 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 11 on clay courts, 2 on indoor courts and 4 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)

Fabio Fognini in 2025

Ranked world no.138, the Italian played his last match on the 1^st of January 1970 when he was overcome by world no.2 Carlos Alcaraz 7-5 6-7(5) 7-5 2-6 6-1 in the 1^st round in Wimbledon (draw).

At the moment, during this season Fognini owns a 4-15 match record.

Carlos Alcaraz and Fabio Fognini clashed against each other 3 times. Their actual head to head record is 3-0 for Alcaraz.

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