INDIAN WELLS, Calif.—Fabio Fognini says he is excited about becoming a father. He and his wife, retired pro Flavia Pennetta, are expecting their first child in just a few weeks.

The Italian reached the third round of Indian Wells and is 5-5 for the season, but admits that his attention is currently on what is happening at home.

"My first goal is … [the] baby is coming," he told TENNIS.com in Indian Wells. "I'm really happy at the moment."

Pennetta, who won the 2015 U.S. Open, retired following her Grand Slam victory and married Fognini in 2016. The couple had dated for several years.

"I'm away from home for 45 days," said Fognini, "but I'm happy because Flavia is happy. She's healthy, and we're going to have the best present.''

He also changed coaches during the offseason, starting with veteran ATP coach Franco Davin.

"Everything is fine," Fognini said. “We try to do something a little bit different.”

“We change a few things in my game, even mentally," he added with a laugh.

Fognini is No. 43 in the rankings.

Advertising

Overjoyed Fabio Fognini can't wait to become first-time father

Overjoyed Fabio Fognini can't wait to become first-time father

Tennis Channel Plus will have the biggest WTA matches of the day from the BNP Paribas Open!

Tennis Channel Plus will have 12 straight days of WTA Action, including the Quarters, Semis and Finals.

All of the best action — Live and On Demand — on any screen — anywhere — only on Tennis Channel Plus!

Tennis Channel Plus is THE ultimate destination for WTA action in March. Subscribe today at BuyTCPlus.com.