Berrettini Withdraws from Australian Open: De Minaur Clash Canceled

Forfeits Mount in Melbourne: Berrettini Follows Cazaux Out, Lucky Loser McDonald Faces No. 6 De Minaur

© AFP

Adrien Guyot

le 17/01/2026 à 08h37

1 min to read

Berrettini Matteo De Minaur McDonald Mackenzie Open d'Australie

Forfeits are piling up in Melbourne. Just hours after Arthur Cazaux's withdrawal due to an elbow injury, a second player has pulled out of the Australian Open. It's Matteo Berrettini.

Like the Frenchman, the world No. 56 has not been spared by injuries throughout his career. While the reason for his absence from the first Grand Slam of the season remains unknown for now, the Italian had played two exhibition matches in recent days against Learner Tien and Tristan Schoolkate.

McDonald, Lucky Loser, New Opponent for Alex de Minaur

"I'm really sorry to have to withdraw from the Australian Open. I've always loved playing here and feeling your incredible support. Thank you to the tournament for its fantastic organization and I hope to see you all very soon," explained the 2022 semifinalist to the Australian Grand Slam media.

Mackenzie McDonald, beaten in the final qualifying round by Liam Draxl, has been awarded lucky loser status. The world No. 113 takes Berrettini's place in the draw and will face Alex de Minaur, the No. 6 player in the world, for a spot in the second round of the 2026 Australian Open.