Berrettini, the “democratic” rule applies now more than ever: the video says it all and is yet another demonstration of their bond.
But is it really that important sometimes to win? Probably not. And this is demonstrated by the fact that although there was not the happy ending in which we had all believed and hoped, Matteo Berrettini still won, in his own way. He prevailed, first of all, in the battle against fate, which has tested him several times in the last 2 years.
And then he won the one against himself, the most difficult of all. Before his comeback, the Roman told on several occasions that he was several times on the verge of giving up, tired and tested as he was by these continuous stop&go. Instead he managed to get back up and look what he was capable of in just seven days: he beat four opponents and even nabbed the final. It doesn’t count, then, or only partially count, that he didn’t leave Phoenix with the winner’s trophy in tow: it was still great to see him smiling and having fun on the court again.
The best, in any case, is yet to come. That was an appetizer, a taste of what will hopefully be in the immediate future. And Berrettini’s future will begin as early as tomorrow, Wednesday, March 20, as he is scheduled to make his debut at the Miami Masters 1000 on that day, which will be under completely different circumstances than in Phoenix.
Berrettini, the friend rule is never wrong
Matteo will take advantage of the protected ranking and rise, if only virtually, to 74th place in the rankings, so he won’t have to face the qualifiers. Waiting for him will be someone who, despite being in withdrawal odor, is a tough guy who never, ever gives up: the unflappable Andy Murray.
Now Miami
: @SkySport pic.twitter.com/2gTrD0yyRJ
– Janniksin_Updates (@JannikSinner_Up) March 17, 2024
It won’t be easy, of course, but the Roman has one no small advantage on his side: a very avid supporter who is also, at the moment, the third best player in the world, namely Jannik Sinner. On the eve of the start of the tournament, the South Tyrolean shot a video in which he spent, among other things, some very kind and polite words towards his compatriot.
“Follow all the Italians,” he said, “not only me. I think he’s also replaying Matteo in a 1000, so I’m very happy. He’s still playing in Phoenix (now the tournament is over, but the message is before the final, ed.): let’s all watch and follow him.” Of the series even before himself, his thoughts always go to others. Especially his friends.