The 2026 Italian Open delivered a day full of surprises—and not just because of Jannik Sinner's victory. Among the most unexpected moments was Arthur Fils' abrupt retirement after just 22 minutes on court, leaving fans both confused and concerned.

Fils, who lost four games before calling it quits, is playing it smart. With Roland Garros—his home slam—right around the corner, he's being cautious. And for good reason: a back issue forced him to retire from the French Open last year, sidelining him for the rest of the season.

But don't count him out yet. Fils has been a standout in his 2026 comeback, emerging as a genuine French Open contender. Here's hoping this setback is minor.

He wasn't the only headline. Aryna Sabalenka fell to Sorana Cirstea, defending champion Jasmine Paolini made an early exit, and Daniil Medvedev earned a walkover. Ben Shelton, fresh off his BMW Open win, was upset, while Joao Fonseca and Felix Auger-Aliassime also bowed out. Even Novak Djokovic's loss in Rome added to the chaos.

As the tournament moves into women's doubles on Sunday, expect the unexpected. Keep an eye on the much-anticipated "McCoco" reunion—Coco Gauff and Caty McNally back together—and the intriguing new pair of Anna Kalinskaya and Iva Jovic. On the men's side, all-American duos Tommy Paul with Ethan Quinn and Alex Michelsen with Learner Tien promise entertaining tennis when they take the court Monday.