Flavia Pennetta is a celebrated name in the world of tennis, known for her exceptional achievements and trailblazing legacy.
As the first Italian woman to break into the WTA Top 10 rankings and win a Grand Slam singles title, her career has been nothing short of remarkable.
Let’s dive into her personal details, career highlights, and accomplishments.
Flavia Pennetta’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Flavia Pennetta |
| Nickname | None |
| Date of Birth | February 25, 1982 |
| Age | 42 years |
| Birthplace | Brindisi, Italy |
| Height | 1.72 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Turned Pro | 2000 |
| Retired | End of 2015 |
| Net Worth | $7 million |
| Salary | (retired) |
| Relationship Status | Married to Fabio Fognini |
| Children | Three (Federico, born 2017; Farah, born 2019; Flaminia, born 2021) |
| Instagram Profile | @flaviapennetta82 |
Flavia’s life off the court is centered around her family. Married to fellow Italian tennis player Fabio Fognini since 2016, the couple shares three children.
Pennetta’s biography reveals a journey of resilience and determination. Born in Brindisi, Italy, she started her tennis career on clay courts and rose through the ranks to become one of Italy’s most iconic athletes.
Early Career
Flavia Pennetta turned professional in 2000 after a solid junior career where she reached a career-high ITF Junior ranking of No. 49.
Her early years on the professional circuit were challenging, but she steadily improved. By age 20, she had broken into the WTA Top 100.
Pennetta’s professional career spanned over 15 years and was marked by numerous milestones.
Professional Career
She became Italy’s first female player to enter the WTA Top 10 in singles in August 2009. In doubles, she achieved the World No. 1 ranking in February 2011.
Her most notable achievement came in 2015 when she won the US Open singles title at age 33, defeating childhood friend Roberta Vinci in an all-Italian final.
This victory made her the oldest woman in the Open Era to win her first Grand Slam title.
She retired later that year while ranked in the Top 10. Pennetta also excelled in doubles, winning prestigious titles such as the Australian Open (2011) and WTA Finals (2010).
She played a pivotal role in Italy’s Fed Cup victories in 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2013.
Husband
Flavia Pennetta is married to Fabio Fognini, a fellow Italian tennis star. The couple tied the knot in June 2016 after dating since 2014.
They are parents to 3 children: Federico (born in 2017), Farah (born in 2019), and Flaminia (born in 2021). Their relationship is built on mutual respect and shared love for tennis.
Flavia Pennetta’s Net Worth Details
Flavia Pennetta’s net worth is estimated to be $7 million as of 2025. This wealth stems from her prize money earnings during her career ($14 million) as well as endorsements and other ventures post-retirement.
Prize Money
Here’s a breakdown of Flavia Pennetta’s prize money earnings during her career:
| Year | Prize Money Earned |
|---|---|
| Career Total | $14,197,886 |
Endorsements
Throughout her career, Pennetta partnered with several brands for endorsements:
- Adidas
- Yonex
- Other Italian brands
These endorsements contributed significantly to her income during and after her playing years.
Career Records
Flavia Pennetta faced many top players during her career. Below is a summary of some notable matches:
| Opponent | Event | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Serena Williams | US Open Quarterfinals | Lost |
| Roberta Vinci | US Open Final (2015) | Won |
| Venus Williams | French Open Third Round | Won |
FAQs
When did Flavia Pennetta retire?
She retired at the end of the 2015 season after winning the US Open.
What is Flavia Pennetta’s highest singles ranking?
Her highest singles ranking was World No. 6.
How many Grand Slam titles has she won?
One singles title (US Open 2015) and one doubles title (Australian Open 2011).
Who is Flavia Pennetta married to?
She is married to Fabio Fognini.
How many children does she have?
Three: Federico, Farah, and Flaminia.
What is her net worth?
As of 2025, it is $7 million.
What are her major doubles achievements?
Winning the Australian Open (2011) and WTA Finals (2010).
Where was she born?
Brindisi, Italy.
What was her playing style?
Aggressive baseline play with strong doubles skills.
What are her social media handles?
Instagram: @flaviapennetta82.
