“Jannik Sinner did a miracle, I will also use this energy for my tennis,” is how Matteo Berrettini, the 28-year-old Italian ATP star thinks follows Jannik Sinner. The Carota Boys’ favorite, besides adding 2 grand slam titles in his name, also became the first-ever Italian male to make it to the US Open finals. Although the decision to not be a part of the Paris Olympics invited hate in his way, the young champ still remains an idol for the enthusiasts as well as the ones who’ve already established a career in the sport.

Matteo Berrettini’s return to the tennis courts at the Shanghai Masters gave new hopes of a solid comeback. After struggling through an injury-filled 2023 season, the Italian star has been looking for momentum in the game. Despite facing the ups and downs of competition, his hard-fought victory over Christopher O’Connell in the first round set new hopes. While this victory was way beyond ordinary, the 28-year-old was proud enough to credit a large part of his motivation to compatriot Jannik Sinner.

Berrettini opened up about how Sinner’s remarkable rise in tennis has inspired him to push harder in his own journey. In a press conference after his first-round win at the Shanghai Masters, he said, “Definitely, it helped me a lot to come back. I look for their results to get the energy to come back. I’m always supporting them in the last year in Davis Cup to get the energy to come back,” referring to the positive influence Sinner and other Italian players have had on him.

Berrettini couldn’t contain his admiration for Sinner’s commendable performance at the China Open final against Carlos Alcaraz. “What Jannik is doing is unbelievable. He proved yesterday once again how his level is so high. I take inspiration from that, and I think all Italians do, and that’s why we have so many players that are really good,” Berrettini said, focusing on the high level of Italian tennis despite Sinner’s defeat in a hard-fought three-setter showdown.

However, this wasn’t the first time Berrettini stepped forward to praise Sinner’s amazing work ethic. After the young Italian’s breakthrough US Open victory over Taylor Fritz, Berrettini highlighted what he admires most about his compatriot. “There are many things I would steal from Jannik. One above all, dedication to work, the ability to always want to improve. He arrived in the elite of tennis at a very young age and never wanted to stop,” he said.

Berrettini now looks forward to another challenge in Shanghai. The young Dan Holger Rune is his second-round rival and things are expected to be highly intense. With this competition underway, it still remains to be seen if he’s actually able to resemble Sinner’s levels. Besides being together in good times, Berrettini also made sure to not leave the US Open champion’s side during one of his toughest times.

Matteo Berrettini’s firm backing for Jannik Sinner amid doping controversy

Matteo Berrettini didn’t shy away from addressing the sensitive topic of the doping case involving Jannik Sinner. The 28-year-old boldly defended his compatriot in an interview with Sky Sports by highlighting the emotional weight this situation has taken on Sinner. “It has been very tough months for him; it’s impressive to see how he’s managing everything,” Berrettini said, appreciating Sinner’s mental strength. The doping allegations have laid immense pressure on the young star but Berrettini tried to keep Sinner’s side in front of the ones criticizing the pro.

Berrettini also revealed the personal conversations he had with Sinner which further gave out the impact of this situation. “I saw less joy in his eyes the last few times we talked,” the 28-year-old shared. The two players had a meaningful moment in the locker room, where their silent understanding explained the weight of the situation. “Just by looking into each other’s eyes, I could understand the enormous difficulty of being in his position,” Berrettini explained, sympathizing with the challenges Sinner is facing.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Berrettini didn’t back down from expressing belief in Sinner’s innocence. “I have known him for many years, and I am convinced that he is innocent and it was all a mistake,” the Italian declared with confidence. Although there are several other players on tour who stand with the young champion, his compatriot’s support is still unmatched as Sinner stands against the world.