Being a sportsperson, things can take a turn for the worse very quickly. Ask Matteo Berrettini, who had one of his worst nightmares at the US Open last year. In an intense sporting environment, the risk of injuries remains high. The Italian tennis star went through one of the toughest phases of his career at the US Open in 2023. Playing in the second-round match against Arthur Rinderknech there, the former World No. 6 suffered the worst injury nightmare.

Berrettini rolled his right ankle while trailing 6-4, 5-3 in the match. The Italian star fell to the court and screamed in agony as heartbreaking scenes emerged. Subsequently, the medical staff rushed to the court to assist Berrettini and helped him get back to his feet. After preliminary treatment, he was whisked away from the court in a wheelchair and looked in agony after giving his all on the court.

“Certainly not the way I hoped my US Open would end. I have been working closely with medical experts since I left the court. We are now waiting for scan results to determine the best next steps,” Berrettini wrote on social media, shortly after exiting the tournament.

That injury setback eventually ended Berrettini’s 2023 season. While he made a comeback earlier this year, the Italian hasn’t shown his best form. Despite winning three titles at lower-rung tournaments, Berrettini has had early exits from big tournaments and even missed a few majors like the Australian Open and the French Open. Nonetheless, he has entered the ongoing US Open fully fit and will take on Taylor Fritz later today.

Matteo Berrettini is more ready than ever to win against Taylor Fritz

Berrettini hasn’t had the best of records while playing against Fritz, losing all three matches played between them. Despite his losing streak, the Italian star is hopeful of a turnaround when the two clash in the second round of the US Open.

Ahead of their encounter, Berrettini said, “You ask me if I feel ready? I feel ready. Every time we played was tough match. And of course, he loves to play here, his tournament in a way—here and Indian Wells. Hell of [a lot of] support, really strong player. It’s going to be a tough match, but that’s why I’m training. Why I’m working really hard this season to come back at this level.”

Earlier in the first round, Berrettini got the better of Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets. Although Fritz will have the support of the local fans, the Italian is more determined than ever to sneak a win over his American opponent. Their match will be held at the Louis Armstrong Stadium later today. Do you feel Berrettini can end his losing streak against Fritz? Let us know your views in the comments below.