Mon May 12 12:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Hurkacz Snags Victory After 63-Day Drought, Forgoes Challenger Tournament to Focus on Roland Garros

**Rome, Italy** – Hubert Hurkacz ended a 63-day winless streak on Saturday, defeating Pedro Martinez in the second round of the Italian Open. The victory, however, came with a strategic decision: the Polish tennis star withdrew from next week’s ATP Challenger tournament in Turin.

Hurkacz’s win in Rome was crucial for his Roland Garros prospects. His recent struggles, including injuries and early exits in Madrid, jeopardized his seeding in the upcoming Grand Slam tournament. A good showing in Rome was vital to securing a seeding, which would guarantee he avoids top players in the early rounds.

Currently ranked 32nd in the live ATP rankings, Hurkacz’s performance in Rome has solidified his position. He strategically entered the Turin Challenger as a backup plan should his Rome campaign falter. However, his win over Martinez, following a comeback from a 2-5 deficit in the second set, made the Turin event unnecessary. He faces Marcus Giron on Monday; a win would almost certainly guarantee Hurkacz a seeding at Roland Garros.

The news of Hurkacz’s victory comes on the heels of Iga Świątek’s early exit from the Italian Open, where she lost to Danielle Collins. Świątek’s loss will see her enter Roland Garros ranked fourth or fifth, depending on Jasmine Paolini’s performance in Rome.

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