Rome previews: Can Naomi Osaka finish what she started against Iga Swiatek?

Iga Świątek vs. Naomi Osaka

They’re multiple major winners and former No. 1s, and way back in the pandemic they were IG Live buddies. As opponents, they’ve played three times and Swiatek has won twice. In the most famous of those matches, two years ago in Paris, she came back from 2-5 down in the third to win.

Now, finally, we get the rematch on clay. Both women have had their ups and downs in 2026, but judging by their blowout wins this weekend, they look to be in form. Osaka may have more power, but Swiatek is the better mover, defender, and dirt-baller in general. Winner: Swiatek

👉 Estimated start time: 12:00 p.m.

▶️ STREAM live on the Tennis Channel app 🔗

Coco Gauff vs. Iva Jovic

This is the first of what should be many meetings between these U.S. prodigies past and present.

For Jovic, it’s a good time to test herself against her country’s No. 1. She’s 18, and this season she has already halved her ranking, from 35 to 17. To do that, she has proven that her 5-foot-7 frame can pack a top-tier punch.

For Gauff, the moment may not be so opportune. On Saturday, she admitted to a lack of motivation due to an unnamed personal issue. Coco is faster and more seasoned on clay, but she’ll need to bring her best against a hungry opponent who will be ready to bring hers. Winner: Gauff

👉 Estimated start time: 6:30 a.m.

▶️ STREAM live on the Tennis Channel app 🔗

Jannik Sinner vs. Alexei Popyrin

These two have gone in opposite directions in 2026. Sinner is 31-2 and has won 24 straight; Popyrin is 6-11 and has lost eight first-rounders. But this could be more competitive than those numbers indicate. Popyrin pushed Sinner to a 7-5 second set in Doha this year; won their only match on clay, in 2021; and has a heavy-topspin forehand that can take the initiative from the Italian.

None of that, of course, will likely be enough to earn him a win. But all we can ask of Sinner’s opponents these days is that they make it interesting. Winner: Sinner

👉 Estimated start time: 9:00 a.m.

▶️ STREAM live on the Tennis Channel app 🔗