Users
in X reported errors in the practice schedule of the Rome Open, including
former world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty, despite it being over two years since her
retirement. Unfortunately, fans cannot get excited about the Australian's
return, as it is an organizational error.
However,
it caught attention on social media that on Sunday, May 5th, there was a
scheduled training session for Barty on Court 9 at the Foro Italico.
Supposedly, the 3-times Grand Slam champion was going to train for an hour with
the local young player Jennifer Ruggeri, who will play in the qualifying
rounds.
Barty
has been retired since 2022 and participated in the Rome Open three times,
without significant results, as her best performance was in 2021 when she
reached the quarterfinals. On that occasion, Barty was leading the match
against the 17-year-old Coco Gauff 6-4, 2-1, but had to retire due to an injury
to her right arm.
Barty
is not the only error found in the practice schedule. For example, the 2013
finalist Victoria Azarenka appears with the flag of the United States. A
similar case with Cameron Norrie, who also appears with the American flag in
the schedule for his training session with Yannik Hanfmann.
Another
curious error appears on Court 5, where Yulia Putintseva is scheduled to train
with Polina Kudermetova, when in reality, it is her older sister Veronika
Kudermetova, considering that Polina is enrolled this week in the ITF W60
Trnava 3 in Slovakia.
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.