Breaking News: Matteo Berrettini retires from Rome Masters with abdominal injury; Casper Ruud advances
Italian star Matteo Berrettini, former Rome Masters champion, has bowed out of the tournament in the third round due to an abdominal injury. The 29-year-old was leading World No. 7 Casper Ruud, 7-5, 2-0, when he retired, following his withdrawal from Madrid last week with the same injury. The move sees Ruud progress to the next round.
H2. Shock in Rome: Berrettini Retires, Gift-Wrapping Quarter-Final Spot for Ruud
H3. Injury-Curtailed Comeback: Berrettini’s Road to Recovery Hits Another Snag
In a disappointing turn of events, Italian fans were left hoping for a speedy recovery rather than celebrating home success at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia on Monday. Matteo Berrettini, fresh off a comeback trail following multiple injuries, was forced to retire due to injury against Casper Ruud in the third round.
H3. The Match That Wasn’t
Leading 7-5, 2-0 against Ruud, the 29-year-old Berrettini was looking sharp, winning 79% of his first-serve points in the opening set. But, as the saying goes, the cruellest twist of Fate can strike at any moment. On the antepenultimate point, Berrettini displayed his prowess with a sublime half-volley lob. However, he then netted a forehand drop shot, signaling the end of the contest and, with it, his hopes of progressing further.
Did you know? This is Berrettini’s second retirement from an ATP Tour match this season due to injury. He withdrew from his third-round match in Madrid after losing the first set to **Jack Draper**.
H3. Ruud’s Road to the Quarter-Finals
Seizing the opportunity presented by Berrettini’s retirement, Ruud moved into the quarter-finals, where he will face Jaume Munar. The Norwegian will be eager to maintain his form, having also reached the quarter-finals in Barcelona and the semi-finals in Madrid before this event.
H3. The Unending Injury Saga for Berrettini
This isn’t the first time injuries have disrupted Berrettini‘s season. He missed the latter part of the 2021 season due to a Wimbledon quarter-final injury and struggled with form and fitness in 2022. In an interview last year, he opened up about the challenges of returning from injury: "[It’s] tough. You lose a bit of your edge, your sharpness. You need to find it back."
Pro Tip Berrettini’s struggle underscores the importance of mental strength and patience in a player’s comeback from injury. As fans, let’s be patient and hope for a smooth recovery.
H2. FAQs
-
When did Berrettini last play in Rome?
Berrettini last competed in Rome in 2021. - What is Berrettini’s best result at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia?
Berrettini reached the quarter-finals in Rome in 2019.
H2. What’s Next for Berrettini? The Road Ahead
Only time will tell how long Berrettini will be sidelined this time. But if his fighting spirit and resilience in previous comebacks are any indication, fans can hope for a swift return to form. His presence on tour is pivotal, not just for Italian tennis, but also for the sport’s global fanbase, who enjoy watching the big-hitting Italian in action.
H2. Join the Conversation
Would you like to see Berrettini return to his former glory? Share your thoughts in the comments below. While you’re here, why not explore more ATP Tour news and player profiles on 247Sports News?