This year's Telecom Italian Masters tennis tournament takes place at the Foro Italico in Rome from 1-16 May. Now in its 61st year, the tournament is Italy's most important tennis competition and features many of the world's best players, including Roger Federer, Juan Carlos Ferrero, Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi, Peter Henman, Justine Henin-Hardenne, Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters.

Despite the many big names present, the event at the monumental Mussolini-built sports grounds in north Rome is easily accessible to the public, with tickets for many of the matches costing 5 or 10, and free admission for women and children to some games.

Collateral events at the Foro Italico include an "exposition village" with sponsors' stands and restaurants, beach tennis competitions and an area for children. For information and tickets see www.telecomitaliamasters.federtennis.it.