Berrettini is feeling pumped for this week in Vienna: “I’m thrilled to play here, it’s a tournament I really like.”
After his match with Marton Fucsovics, Matteo Berrettini took part in the customary interviews. It was a good start to the day, with both Italian players advancing to the next round here in Vienna.
Quote of the day:
“After Marrakech, it was the toughest moment of 2024, but I picked myself up and found the joy of being on the court again.”
Q: “What were the keys to your victory today?”
Berrettini: “I have to say that serving well was the key. When I serve well, I feel less pressure and can invest more energy into return games. Plus, I also found consistency on return today, which is really important. Overall, I believe everything comes from the serve, and I’m very happy with how I played. I also have to say I’m really happy to be here in Vienna—it’s a tournament I like, and I can’t wait to play. I have some great memories here.”
Q: “You mentioned your serve. Tell us how difficult it is to maintain that kind of consistency.”
Berrettini: “Let’s say it’s something I’ve gotten used to. Relying on my serve has always been a key since I joined the tour. I started playing tennis on clay, but by working with my coaches, we improved my serve a lot to win easy points.”
Q: “Speaking of your evolution, what would have surprised you the most when you started?”
Berrettini: “Maybe how I’ve adapted to playing on grass. The first time I played at Wimbledon was at the junior level. I remember I was really young, and there was an emotional aspect to it since being there was a dream. Over time, I worked on it, and maybe I bloomed a bit later than others, but I got there.”
Q: “Looking back on this year, what are you most proud of? It’s been a special year where you also won three titles.”
Berrettini: “Yes, it’s been a special year. I started the season late because I began playing in Phoenix and then continued well in Marrakech, where I won the tournament. But right after Marrakech, it was a tough moment because I had to stop again. It felt unbelievable to have gotten injured again, almost like déjà vu, which made me miss the clay season—something I care a lot about and where I enjoy playing. However, I’m proud to say that I mentally overcame that moment, and soon after, I regained the desire and energy to find joy in playing again.”
Q: “This is Thiem’s last tournament. Can you share some thoughts on him?”
Berrettini: “Dominic has been an incredible player, and I’m honored to have faced him. The results he achieved are amazing, and the fact that he managed to challenge Rafa on clay says a lot. I have immense respect for his career and his decision to leave the tour now that he feels he can no longer compete the way he wants to. I’m sure that respect is shared by all the other players on the circuit.”
UBITENNIS QUESTION: Since we’re talking about Thiem, can you share a few words about how he has dealt with injuries and how he spoke about his emotional struggles after winning the US Open? Specifically, how hard it can be to show vulnerability in such a competitive sport like tennis.”
Berrettini: “Playing tennis is much more than just hitting a ball. It’s crucial to take care of your body and try to manage injuries as best as you can. Over the past two years, I’ve been hit with injuries myself, so I understand what that’s like. On the psychological side, it’s a complex issue. There are situations I consider personal and don’t think should be made public. But on the other hand, I believe we’re finally moving away from the idea that you have to be invincible. It’s normal to try and build a shield, not just in tennis or sports, but in all areas of life. However, I think we’re starting to talk more openly about these struggles. For example, recently Grigor (Dimitrov) spoke about going through dark times as well. I think it’s healthy to be able to talk about these things more freely and without judgment, while still keeping certain matters private when they should remain so.”
UBITENNIS QUESTION: Let’s go back to talking about 2024. It’s been a few months since you changed your team and started working with new people. What are the main takeaways for you?”
Berrettini: “Yes, it’s true, it was a big change. It wasn’t a change driven by results, as what I’ve achieved over the years has been incredibly satisfying and clear to everyone. However, I felt it was the right decision. It has been a great source of motivation to work with new people, and from this change and interaction, I’ve definitely gained a lot of positive energy.”
UBITENNIS QUESTION: “Regarding your physical condition, what can you tell us? How are you feeling at the moment?”
Berrettini: “I have to say that I’m feeling good, even in my movement; I’m moving well and feeling confident. Of course, when you’re coming back from repeated injuries, the risks increase, and it’s also more challenging to manage psychologically. Even on a subconscious level, something lingers. But, as I said, I’m very happy with how things are going right now: I’m training really well, and we’re working to put me in the best possible condition. Even having to be cautious is a source of motivation. Working to get back to my best and overcoming those subconscious mental barriers is a great challenge I’m facing, and it’s one of the many things that motivates me.”
