Three-time Rome champion Iga Swiatek advanced to the Italian Open last 32 despite a scare against American Caty McNally, winning 6-1 6-7(5-7) 6-3 after squandering three break points for a 4-1 lead. The Polish star acknowledged the challenging conditions that led to long rallies and her eventual comeback after the American threatened another turnaround similar to their 2018 junior clay court encounter.

Swiatek's tournament preparation took an unexpected turn when new head coach Francisco Roig suffered a torn Achilles tendon during a promotional match in Rome, requiring surgery. Meanwhile, Naomi Osaka battled past Eva Lys 6-4 4-6 6-3 after twice blowing leads in both sets, showing resilience as the four-time Grand Slam champion secured her place in the third round.

Both players will face significant tests in the next round, with Swiatek set to confront either No. 28 seed Emma Navarro or Italian hopeful Elisabetta Cocciaretto, while Osaka meets No. 19 seed Diana Shnaider. The victories maintain both players' momentum ahead of the French Open, with Swiatek seeking her fourth Rome title and Osaka continuing her comeback on clay surfaces.