When in Rome...When thinking about visiting a major tennis tournament in Europe, the Internazionali BNL d'Italia has to come into consideration. The event is the final stop on tour before Roland Garros and one of only four European events that see the stars of the ATP and WTA tours compete at the same time, fans who attend are sure to see star studded line-ups while staying in one of the most glamorous cities in the world.
With six-time defending champion Rafael Nadal looking to add another title to his 2013 haul and Serena Williams eager to keep her unbelievable winning streak going, the tournament was nicely set up for some gladiatorial showdowns. Our fan reviewer Adam Fenton visited the Foro Italico for Wednesday's night session which featured eventual champion Rafael Nadal and runner-up in the women's event Victoria Azarenka. An avid fan of tennis throughout the year, Fenton visits events live whenever he can. "Watching tennis live you appreciate more the skill and athleticism that is required to be a professional tennis player". The 10,400-seater Campo Centrale, one of the newest stadiums in tennis, was opened in 2010 and did not fail to impress Fenton. "Campo Centrale was one of the best main stadiums I have been on. "I had seats fairly near the back but still had a great view". However, what ultimately sets this tournament apart from its nearest rivals is the culture that the eternal city showers upon every visitor. "I consider Rome to be one of the best cities in the world, Rome is incredible". Adam's top three attractions to visit: 1. The Colosseum: Possibly the most famous sight in Rome, the largest amphitheatre in the world is a must-see for any tourist. Several WTA stars made the trip this year. |
Our guest reviewer standing over Campo Centrale for
Rafael Nadal's victory over local hero Fabio Fognini The pathway towards Rome's famous Colosseum
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2. The Vatican: If it is good enough for Juan Martin Del Potro, it is good enough for any tennis fan. The home of newly elected Pope Francis is an unbelievable sight to behold.
3. The Trevi Fountain: The largest baroque fountain in the city is one of the most famous fountains in the world. Be sure to throw a coin or two, legend says it ensures a return to the city.
If the sights and incredible finals of 2013 are not enough to entice you for a visit in 2014, Fenton has one final trick up his sleeve, "the food is incredible". How can we argue with that!
For more opinions and sights of Rome, follow Adam Fenton on Twitter.
3. The Trevi Fountain: The largest baroque fountain in the city is one of the most famous fountains in the world. Be sure to throw a coin or two, legend says it ensures a return to the city.
If the sights and incredible finals of 2013 are not enough to entice you for a visit in 2014, Fenton has one final trick up his sleeve, "the food is incredible". How can we argue with that!
For more opinions and sights of Rome, follow Adam Fenton on Twitter.