PARIS — Matteo Berrettini, the 2021 Wimbledon finalist, has withdrawn from the French Open due to ongoing injury struggles, marking another setback in what has been a nightmarish stretch for the Italian star. The 28-year-old, once ranked as high as No. 6 in the world, has battled persistent physical issues over the past two years, limiting his ability to compete at the highest level.
Berrettini’s withdrawal was confirmed by tournament organizers on Monday, just days before the start of Roland Garros. The former world No. 6 has been sidelined since March after suffering an ankle injury during a match in Miami. His absence from the clay-court Grand Slam continues a frustrating trend—since reaching the Wimbledon final in 2021, Berrettini has missed multiple majors due to injuries, including last year’s US Open and Australian Open.
A Career Hampered by Injuries
Berrettini’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and devastating lows. After breaking into the top 10 in 2019, he quickly established himself as one of the most formidable players on grass and hard courts. His powerful serve and forehand made him a threat on any surface, but his body has repeatedly betrayed him at crucial moments.
Key injuries that have derailed Berrettini’s momentum include:
- A recurring abdominal tear that forced him out of the 2022 ATP Finals
- A right hand injury that required surgery in 2023, sidelining him for months
- An ankle sprain in March 2024, which has now ruled him out of Roland Garros
In a statement posted on social media, Berrettini expressed his disappointment: "It breaks my heart to miss another Grand Slam, especially Roland Garros, where I’ve always loved competing. My body isn’t ready yet, and I need to focus on recovery."
What’s Next for Berrettini?
With his ranking now outside the top 100, Berrettini faces an uphill battle to regain his former standing. His team has indicated that he is targeting a return during the grass-court season, where he has historically excelled. "Matteo’s priority is to get fully healthy before pushing for a comeback," his coach, Vincenzo Santopadre, told reporters.
The Toll of Repeated Setbacks
The mental toll of repeated injuries has been evident in Berrettini’s recent interviews. In a candid conversation with Italian media last month, he admitted, "There are days when I question everything. But I still believe I can come back stronger. Tennis is my life, and I’m not ready to give up."
Fellow players have also voiced their support. Novak Djokovic, who faced Berrettini in the 2021 Wimbledon final, said, "Matteo is one of the most talented players out there. It’s heartbreaking to see him struggle like this. I hope he finds his way back soon."
The Bigger Picture
Berrettini’s situation highlights the brutal physical demands of professional tennis. Injuries have derailed the careers of many promising players, and the Italian’s case is a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change. His withdrawal leaves the French Open field without one of its most charismatic competitors, further thinning an already injury-hit men’s draw.
As Berrettini focuses on rehabilitation, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can stage another comeback. His talent is undeniable, but his body’s resilience remains the biggest question mark.
For now, the tennis world can only wait and hope. As one fan tweeted, "Get well soon, Matteo. The sport isn’t the same without you."