Written by Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Monday, January 13, 2025
Photograph credit score: Graham Denholm/Getty
Matteo Berrettini confirmed nice muscle reminiscence on his return to Melbourne.
Berrettini hits 32 aces in 6-7 (4), 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 Australian Open win Cameron Norrie on the KIA Area.
This wasn’t basic Berrettini—it was higher than that, Berrettini mentioned.
The 2022 AO semi-finalist mentioned he’s technically a greater participant than he was three years in the past, however admits he had extra confidence then.
“I believe on the time I felt actually assured, however should you take a look at the highlights and stuff. “I do not assume I used to be taking part in higher when there was a stroke,” mentioned Berrettini. “Perhaps I used to be taking part in higher as a result of I used to be extra targeted. I used to play some form of video games, however I really feel like my degree is excessive.
“Right this moment I believe I performed an excellent sport. My backhand I believe is healthier than three years in the past. My comeback is healthier than three years in the past. There’s nonetheless room for enchancment, fortunately, and it is only a matter of time and video games and alternatives to play with the very best gamers on the planet. “
Berrettini, 28, will play the thirteenth place Holger Rune third spherical spot.
Rune went a good distance in conquering China Zhizhen Zhang.
“Sure, subsequent Holger. We performed a couple of instances final 12 months, and I noticed the ultimate rating of the sport,” mentioned Berrettini. “Clearly he’s a high participant. We by no means play slam. So it is very totally different, however on the similar time I do know it may be a troublesome sport. However I can hear nicely. I really feel assured. I performed, I believe, an excellent sport right this moment. It is prepared for what’s subsequent.”
