One of the ATP Tour's most successful doubles partnerships of recent years is approaching its end. Simone Bolelli has announced that he and Andrea Vavassori expect to go their separate ways at the conclusion of the 2026 season, bringing an end to a collaboration that has produced 10 ATP titles, including two Masters 1000 trophies this year.
The Italian pair suffered a painful defeat in their Shanghai Masters debut on Sunday, losing to Nikola Mektic and Austin Krajicek 6-7(2), 7-6(2), 10-7. However, it was the news that followed the match that attracted the most attention, with Bolelli confirming the likely separation during an interview with Spazio Tennis.
The announcement comes at a surprising moment for the Italians. They have established themselves among the leading teams on the doubles circuit, won the Miami Open and Italian Open this season and remain fifth in the Race to the ATP Finals in Turin. Their qualification is not yet mathematically secured, but they are well placed to reach the season-ending championships.
Although their partnership is nearing its conclusion, Bolelli has made clear that he has no immediate plans to retire. The 41-year-old still wants to compete at the highest level, even if winning a Grand Slam title is no longer an overriding ambition. The pair will have several opportunities to add to their record before they go their separate ways.
Bolelli confirms partnership split after Shanghai defeat
Speaking to Spazio Tennis after the loss to Mektic and Krajicek, Bolelli addressed the possibility of winning a Grand Slam alongside Vavassori before confirming that their partnership would probably end in December.
“I don't know whether a Grand Slam title with Vavassori will happen. We've made some decisions, and I think we'll split at the end of the year,” Bolelli said.
The announcement brings an end to a partnership that began on a regular basis in 2023 and quickly developed into one of the most competitive combinations in men's doubles. Together, Bolelli and Vavassori have won 10 titles and reached six additional finals, including three Grand Slam finals. Their breakthrough in 2026 came with titles at the Miami Open and Italian Open, two of the biggest tournaments outside the majors.
Despite those achievements, a Grand Slam title has remained elusive. The pair have repeatedly challenged for the biggest prizes, but have not managed to convert their opportunities into a major championship.
Bolelli, however, indicated that the pursuit of a Grand Slam would not define the remainder of his career. “The fire is still there, but winning a Grand Slam isn't an obsession for me. If it comes, great, but either way, I'll try to give my best,” he added.
That comment also clarified an important point about his future. While the partnership with Vavassori is expected to end, Bolelli intends to continue playing, leaving the door open to building a new team for the 2027 season.
ATP Finals and Davis Cup remain final targets
Before separating, the Italians still have meaningful objectives to pursue. Their fifth position in the Race to Turin puts them in a strong position to qualify for the ATP Finals, where the eight leading doubles teams of the season compete for the year-end title. They are expected to continue together at Vienna and Paris before the ATP Finals, provided they secure their place.
ATP Doubles Race – Top 10
| Rank | Players | Country | Points |
| 1 | ✓ Harri Heliövaara / Henry Patten | FIN / GBR | 7,880 |
| 2 | ✓ Christian Harrison / Neal Skupski | USA / GBR | 5,980 |
| 3 | ✓ Marcel Granollers / Horacio Zeballos | ESP / ARG | 5,330 |
| - | ATP Finals Qualification Cut | - | - |
| 4 | Marcelo Arévalo / Mate Pavić | ESA / CRO | 5,045 |
| 5 | Simone Bolelli / Andrea Vavassori | ITA / ITA | 4,660 |
| 6 | Kevin Krawietz / Tim Pütz | GER / GER | 4,110 |
| 7 | Orlando Luz / Rafael Matos | BRA / BRA | 3,860 |
| 8 | Guido Andreozzi / Manuel Guinard | ARG / FRA | 3,730 |
| 9 | Théo Arribagé / Albano Olivetti | FRA / FRA | 3,700 |
| 10 | Julian Cash / Lloyd Glasspool | GBR | 3,480 |
The schedule could also include the Davis Cup Finals in Bologna, where Bolelli and Vavassori would have another opportunity to represent Italy together. The pair helped Italy win the Davis Cup in 2024 and 2025, adding a national-team dimension to a partnership that has delivered consistently at tour level.
Their individual achievements also give them a strong foundation for the next stage of their careers. Bolelli won the 2015 Australian Open men's doubles title with Fabio Fognini, while Vavassori has collected four Grand Slam mixed doubles titles alongside Sara Errani. Both remain established figures in the discipline, and their separation does not signal the end of either player's career.
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For now, the focus is on making the final weeks count. After nearly four seasons together, Bolelli and Vavassori have one last opportunity to add to their 10 titles, qualify for Turin and potentially finish their partnership with another major achievement.
Their Shanghai defeat was disappointing, but the remaining tournaments could yet provide a more fitting conclusion to one of Italy's leading doubles teams.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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