Matteo Berrettini: Wimbledon Covid’s Absence Is Still Hurting Him
After reaching the third round on Friday, Matteo Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, said the hurt from having to withdraw from the competition with Covid last year had not subsided.
After reaching the third round on Friday, Matteo Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, said the hurt from having to withdraw from the competition with Covid last year had not subsided.
After reaching the third round on Friday, Matteo Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, said the hurt from having to withdraw from the competition with Covid last year had not subsided.
The Australian 15th seed Alex de Minaur was defeated by the unseeded Italian, who lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 championship match, 6-3, 6-4, and 6-4, to set up a matchup with Alexander Zverev.
The 27-year-old, currently ranked 38th worldwide, expressed happiness at being back on London’s green grass.
“What happened last year is something I think hasn’t healed yet.”
“It’s a sharp pain if I think about it. I was in the best career shape, especially feeling great on grass. I wanted to enjoy the tournament — such a special tournament for me. Not being able to play was something that, even when I was better physically, was tough mentally to overcome.”
Matteo Berrettini
Achieving the round of 32 was a success, according to Matteo Berrettini, who was forced to withdraw from the previous French Open due to an abdominal ailment.
“Even playing like a few points would have been good this year.”
“That’s why I’m really happy. I’m really glad. I know it’s the third round, but it feels like way more.”
Matteo Berrettini
The Italian claimed that he had received support from his family and his team during the previous year. Having grown up on clay, Matteo Berrettini admitted that he had previously struggled on grass but now feels comfortable on it.
“My forehand, my serve even, was just shaped for slower surfaces.”
“Then I don’t know what happened actually. I just changed a little bit my attitude.”
“I felt like playing aggressive, it’s really important here. You don’t have to stress out that much during the matches. Sometimes the opponent is just serving better than you, you’re returning… you have to let it go. You have to be ready in the important moments. That’s what I’m trying to do. Then it’s about confidence.”
Matteo Berrettini
