Fabio Fognini’s Tensions with Filippo Volandri
Fabio Fognini’s tensions with Filippo Volandri, the captain of Italy’s Davis Cup team, show no sign of dissipating following Fognini’s exclusion from the squad in 2023. The situation turned sour when Fognini, once a mainstay for the national team, learned that he had not made the cut for a competition in which Italy ultimately triumphed. Despite the team’s subsequent successes in 2024 and 2025, Fognini remains deeply affected by the snub and has been vocal about his grievances ever since.
Fognini’s Reaction to Exclusion
Upon receiving the news of his removal, Fognini expressed his frustration through a post on X, detailing his shock at being excluded without proper justification. He reflected on a conversation he had with Volandri, lamenting:
“On Monday, while I was in Genoa, the captain’s call came to me: suddenly I no longer fit into the plans, without justifiable explanations and in ways that I didn’t agree with. This felt disrespectful to my history and my Italian past. Until then, I had prepared vigorously for my place on the team.”
Volandri’s Justification
In response, Volandri articulated his reasons for the decision, citing Fognini’s physical fitness as a critical factor. He explained on ANSA:
“Fognini’s recent performances had been marred by retirements and injuries. His condition in the lead-up to the Davis Cup did not align with the standards required for selection. I was even informed by his medical team while in New York that he was not in good shape.”
Fognini’s Legacy and Continued Discontent
Fognini concluded his professional career at this year’s Wimbledon, having secured nine ATP singles titles, which included notable victories at the Monte-Carlo Masters and the Australian Open in doubles. His contributions to the Davis Cup have been significant, as he has secured 22 wins out of 31 singles matches for Italy, solidifying his legacy as an integral part of the national team.
However, the lingering disappointment from Volandri’s decision continues to stoke Fognini’s feelings of resentment, as he articulated on the Rai2 program ‘Belve.’ He stated:
“I still don’t understand why I was left out, and I never had the chance to discuss it with anyone. A real discussion is important, even when opinions differ. Ask Volandri why it was handled that way; I can’t accept it, and I likely never will.”
Encounter After Retirement
Compounding his discontent, Fognini revealed an encounter he had with Volandri shortly after announcing his retirement at Wimbledon. Despite being in the same dining venue, Volandri merely acknowledged him with a brief greeting, without offering any words of congratulations or acknowledgment of Fognini’s successful career. He remarked:
“He had the chance to say something, but he chose not to.”
This highlights the ongoing rift between the player and the captain.
