Aryna Sabalenka’s third‑round collapse in Rome stunned the field. After cruising to a 6‑2 lead, the world No 1 fell to 26th‑ranked Sorana Cirstea, who rallied to win 2‑6 6‑3 7‑5 in the deciding set. The Romanian celebrated her first victory over a top‑seed in what will be her final professional season, while Sabalenka cited lower‑back trouble as a limiting factor.

Defending champion Jasmine Paolini also exited, surrendering three match points in a 4‑6 7‑6(5) 6‑3 defeat to Elise Mertens. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner kept his Masters‑1000 streak alive, dispatching Sebastian Ofner 6‑3 6‑4 without facing a break point on clay. The win marked his 29th consecutive Masters victory and moved him closer to the elusive Career Golden Masters.

Cirstea’s triumph gave her a rare win over a world No 1 and sets up a last‑16 clash with Linda Noskova. Sabalenka plans immediate rest to address her back and hip, acknowledging the setback after a similar upset in Madrid. Sinner’s flawless performance reinforces his bid for a historic season, leaving him as the clear favourite for the Italian Open title this week again.