Berrettini Battles Illness Before Australian Open Match Against De Minaur

Morgan Winslow

ago 2 hours

Berrettini Battles Illness Before Australian Open Match Against De Minaur

Matteo Berrettini is facing a significant challenge before his first match at the Australian Open against Alex de Minaur. The Italian player has recently experienced health issues that have raised concerns about his fitness levels.

Berrettini’s Recent Health Struggles

The former world number six had to withdraw early from an exhibition match at Melbourne Park due to illness. Previously, he played only one match against Nicolai Budkov Kjaer from Norway, but he had to retire prematurely.

Upcoming Australian Open Clash

Berrettini is set to face local favorite Alex de Minaur in the opening round on Monday. This encounter has garnered much attention, especially since it marks Berrettini’s return to the Australian Open following a troubled last year where he faced several injuries.

Recent Performance History

Knocked out in the second round of the 2022 Australian Open.
Forced to retire from the Italian Open due to an oblique injury.
Missed the French Open and the US Open due to injury flare-ups.
Has missed seven Grand Slam events in the past four years.

Despite these challenges, Berrettini played a key role in Italy’s Davis Cup victory in November. His current ATP ranking is 56.

Head-to-Head Against De Minaur

Historically, Berrettini has a favorable record against De Minaur, leading the head-to-head count 3-2. However, both of De Minaur’s victories over Berrettini have occurred on hard courts.

De Minaur’s Draw and Potential Matches

Entering this year’s Australian Open as the highest seed, De Minaur faces a difficult path. If he defeats Berrettini, he may confront either Mariano Navone or Hamad Medjedovic in the second round. If he progresses further, he may encounter Frances Tiafoe in round three and potentially face Alexander Bublik in the last 16. Lastly, Carlos Alcaraz could be his opponent in the quarter-finals.

As both players prepare for their encounter, the matchup promises to be a compelling spectacle, especially given Berrettini’s recent health concerns and De Minaur’s ambitions on home soil.