In a surprising turn of events, Fabio Fognini has withdrawn from the 2025 Australian Open due to a foot injury sustained during the qualifying rounds in Adelaide. The Italian tennis star, who was set to face Grigor Dimitrov in the first round, had to retire from his match against Benjamin Bonzi last week, visibly distraught and in pain.
Fognini’s withdrawal has opened the door for Francesco Passaro, who has been called up as a lucky loser. Passaro, who lost in the final qualifying round to Nikoloz Basilashvili, will now make his Grand Slam debut against Dimitrov. This marks a significant opportunity for the young Italian, who will be eager to prove himself on the big stage.
Fognini’s injury is a blow to the tournament, as the experienced player was expected to put up a strong fight. His absence also means that the Italian contingent at the Australian Open has been reduced to just 13 players, with Passaro now carrying the hopes of his compatriots.
Fabio Fognini in 2025
LLLWLL Ranked no.89, Fognini played his last match on the 5th of January when he had to retire when playing against world no.70 Benjamin Bonzi in the qualifications and the scoreline was 3-2 .
During this season Fabio has achieved a composed 0-1 win-loss record.
Francesco Passaro in 2025
LWWLWWLWLW Currently the world no.105 (career-high), the Italian played his last match on the 9th of January when he was overcome by world no.210 Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3 6-3 in the qualifications of the Australian Open (draw).
Currently, during this year the Italian has an overall 4-2 record.
Fabio Fognini and Francesco Passaro have never fought against each other.
