In time, Romanian tennis players have compelled recognition in the Foro Italico tennis courts, in the women’s as well as in the men’s version of the competition. In recent years, however, and especially in the single’s events, Romanian tennis players have yet to prove their mettle. This year, Sorana Carstea has reached the farthest, since she qualified for the eighth finals. However, Carstea missed the opportunity to secure a position among the first eight tennis players in the Rome tournament. The Czech Petra Kvitova, the favourite number 4 of the tournament, defeated Sorana, 6-2, 5-7, 6-2.

In the men’s doubles, Horia Tecau reached as far as the semifinals. Alongside his by now regular partner, the Swede Robert Lindstedt, the Romanian’s blazing trail towards the finals was cut short by Lukasz Kubot from Poland and Janko Tipsarevic from Serbia, after two sets only: 2-6 , 3-6. It should be noted, though, that Horia Tecau’s going as far as the semifinals in Rome is no mean feat. That is why Radio Romania International has designated Tecau the Athlete of the Week.

Horia Tecau was born in Brasov on January the 19, 1985. He has been playing tennis since he was 7. In 2002 Tecau was the juniors champion in Wimbledon, alongside Florin Mergea. Tecau turned professional in 2003. His career in the men’s singles was not very impressive, yet Horia Tecau compelled recognition in the men’s doubles. Since 2008 Tecau has been among the world top 100 doubles tennis players, and since 2009, among the world’s top 50. At present Tecau is seeded 11th in the men’s doubles standings at world level.