The clay-court season is heating up, and all eyes are now on Rome for the third and final ATP Masters 1000 event before the French Open. After the excitement of Madrid, the Italian Open promises top-tier tennis action—and a hefty payday for those who go the distance.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz won't be in the draw this year, having withdrawn due to a wrist issue. The Spaniard claimed his first Italian Open title last year in a thrilling final against home favorite Jannik Sinner. Since then, Alcaraz has only played one event in 2026, falling in three sets to Alex de Minaur in Barcelona—a match that marked what is likely his final appearance at that tournament.

With Alcaraz out, Sinner enters as the heavy favorite, but the road won't be easy. Novak Djokovic, who has been managing an injury since his early exit in Monte Carlo, skipped Madrid to recover and is expected to be a major threat. The two could meet in a blockbuster clash that would electrify the Foro Italico.

Beyond the glory, there's serious money at stake. This year's Italian Open boasts a prize pool of €8,235,540. The champion will take home €1,007,165, while the runner-up earns €535,585. Semifinalists are guaranteed at least €297,550 each, and quarterfinalists will pocket a minimum of €169,375. Alongside the cash, ATP points are up for grabs: 1,000 for the winner, 650 for the runner-up, 400 for semifinalists, and 200 for quarterfinalists.

Off the court, the earnings race continues to heat up. Carlos Alcaraz recently surpassed Andy Murray in all-time career prize money, with $64,948,871 to Murray's $64,687,542. Jannik Sinner is closing in fast at $62,321,898, while Novak Djokovic remains in a league of his own with a staggering $193 million in career earnings.

As the tennis world shifts from Madrid to Rome, the stage is set for drama, big serves, and even bigger paychecks. Whether you're chasing the champion's check or just love the game, this is a tournament you won't want to miss.