As Italian tennis continues to make significant strides on the world stage, Lorenzo Sonego is preparing to kick off the new season with determination and clear ambitions. At 29, the Turin-born talent is eager to break into the ATP top 20 rankings in 2026, a goal that reflects both his past achievements and his belief in continued progress.

In a candid conversation, Sonego highlighted the Australian Open as a pivotal point in his campaign. “Grand Slams are the ultimate target for every professional player,” he said. “Starting the year well at Melbourne sets the tone, and after a strong performance there, it’s natural to want to match or surpass that level.” Alongside physical preparation, he acknowledged the importance of the tournament draw and acclimating to the unique conditions in Melbourne, emphasizing how vital these factors are for maintaining momentum early in the season.

Currently ranked around No. 39, Sonego faces the challenge of defending a considerable number of ranking points when the new season begins. He risks losing up to 400 points early on, which makes his ambition to climb inside the top 20 ambitious yet achievable with consistent results. His highest career ranking to date is No. 21, so this next step represents a significant milestone in a career marked by resilience and steady improvement.

Italian tennis has experienced a remarkable renaissance over recent years, with a deep pool of talent emerging across all age groups. While Sonego is a key figure, he is part of a larger cohort of Italian players making waves globally. Jannik Sinner, for example, has already reached as high as world No. 2 and is regarded as a potential future Grand Slam champion. Players like Lorenzo Musetti, Flavio Cobolli, and Luciano Darderi are also making significant strides, firmly establishing Italy as a tennis powerhouse. As of the end of 2025, eight Italian players are ranked within the ATP top 100, a number surpassed only by the United States and France. This depth underscores the healthy state of Italian men’s tennis — one built on a strong junior development system and an emphasis on versatility across surfaces.

Historically, Italy boasts a proud tennis heritage dating back to the early 20th century. Legends such as Nicola Pietrangeli, who won two French Open titles in the late 1950s and early 1960s, laid the groundwork for future generations. More recently, players like Adriano Panatta, who triumphed at the French Open in 1976, inspired a resurgence of interest in the sport domestically. However, Italy’s current golden era, in which players like Sonego compete alongside Davis Cup heroes, is arguably the most impressive in its history.

Speaking of the Davis Cup, Sonego has been an integral part of Italy’s recent successes in the international team competition. Italy has secured three consecutive Davis Cup titles, underscoring the nation’s rise as a formidable force on clay and hard courts alike. The 2026 Davis Cup Finals, which Italy will host, represents a special opportunity to defend their crown on home soil, a prospect that elevates the importance of players like Sonego delivering their best performances. Selection won’t be guaranteed, emphasizing the competitive nature among Italy’s elite and their hunger for continued team glory.

Sonego’s approach to the coming season is grounded in belief and work ethic. “I feel I can still achieve success,” he noted, “and the work we’re doing, as well as what lies ahead, moves precisely in this direction.” Given that players often reach their peak in their late 20s and early 30s, the coming months could represent a prime window for him to achieve the goals he’s set.

Looking at the broader Italian landscape, the top eight Italian men’s players at the end of 2025 illustrate the depth of talent:

– Jannik Sinner (No. 2)
– Lorenzo Musetti (No. 8)
– Flavio Cobolli (No. 22)
– Luciano Darderi (No. 26)
– Lorenzo Sonego (No. 39)
– Matteo Berrettini (No. 56)
– Matteo Arnaldi (No. 61)
– Mattia Bellucci (No. 64)

This spread of talent demonstrates how Italy is not reliant on a single star but rather benefits from a stew of top-level competitors pushing each other to excel.

For the 2026 season, Sonego’s schedule includes key tournaments such as the Rio Open, Santiago Open, and Argentina Open. These events typically provide good opportunities for players strong on clay, which suits Sonego’s playing style well. With his experience in varied conditions, coupled with improved fitness and strategic adjustments made over previous seasons, he’s optimistic about the season ahead.

Italian tennis’s rise on the men’s circuit mirrors a broader growth in the sport throughout Italy, which has seen renewed investments in youth tennis programs, coaching, and infrastructure. Italian fans are known for their passion and celebrate their players’ successes fervently, adding to the motivating environment for individuals like Sonego.

With history on his side and a determined team behind him, Lorenzo Sonego stands poised to seize the opportunities 2026 presents. Whether it’s breaking into the top 20, delivering further Davis Cup heroics, or shining in the Grand Slams, he’s set to serve up his best tennis yet. No excuses, no distractions — just the focused drive to climb higher and make Italian tennis proud once again.