"He Had All the Qualities to Win ATP Finals and Wimbledon," Berrettini's Former Coach Reflects on His Tough Period

Struggling for many months now, Berrettini has expressed his frustration with recurring injuries. Mentally exhausted, the Italian even hinted at preparing for all possibilities, including retirement. Vincenzo Santopadre, who coached the player for 13 years, discussed his former pupil's situation in an interview shared by Tennis World Italia.

"Matteo is obviously in a situation he wouldn’t want to be in. I believe that even in a moment where he may not be at his strongest, he has the ability to understand what he needs to do and try to feel good, which is the most important thing for him.

Finding the strength to do what he loves most and what makes him feel good. I believe he will come out of this moment as he has from many others. That is obviously the hope. I’m convinced and certain of it. So, more than a wish on my part, it’s a belief. Do I have regrets with him? Probably—I would have liked to do even more with him.

I would have liked to see Matteo play at Wimbledon the year he missed due to Covid. It would have been great to see him compete in the Turin finals as well. I think in both situations, he had all the qualities to achieve excellent results and win both the finals and Wimbledon."

For context, the 29-year-old player has not competed since Wimbledon and his loss to Majchrzak (4-6, 6-2, 6-4, 5-7, 6-3).