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As Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner collide, suddenly the summer is shining with promise

Rohit Brijnath

Once again all eyes are on Carlos Alcaraz, who won in Rome and is the favourite for Paris. PHOTO: REUTERS

UPDATED May 20, 2025, 01:00 AM

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In Rome’s ancient amphitheatre, almost 2,000 years old, dusty, armoured gladiators fought for the public’s entertainment. Almost a century ago, another dirt-filled arena was built in that city, where warriors in shorts tussled before animated crowds.

Both sites involved combat under strict rules but with a difference. In the first, lives were lost; in the second, only reputations. The Colosseum was a dangerous place, but the Foro Italico, site of tennis’ Italian Open, is no Sunday picnic.

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