“I Cheered For Federer”: Matteo Berrettini Picks Roger Federer Ahead of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic

Fans became quite disappointed when they got to know that both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer will miss the US Open 2021. Intriguingly, it is for the first time in 24 years that Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Venus Williams, and Serena Williams are not playing at a Grand Slam. The last time when all four together missed a Grand Slam was at the Australian Open 1997 when none of the four had made their debut on tour.

In a recent interview to Corriera Dela Sera, World No.8 Matteo Berrettini revealed his rankings for the ‘Big Three’. Interestingly, he also disclosed some quite startling facts about Roger Federer.

“I have never hidden that I cheered for Federer: I did it as a kid, I do it today. But the beauty of Djokovic, Federer and Nadal is that they are very different, they have enormous qualities among which it is difficult to choose,” said Berrettini in the interview. (Translated via Google Translate)

It is a well known thing that Berrettini is a huge fan of Federer. However, no one knew that he used to cheer for the Swiss Maestro when he was a young kid.

As far as the ‘Big Three’ are concerned, the Italian player believes that each one of them is a different player. Even though he clearly picked Federer ahead of Rafa and Nole, he faced a lot of difficulty in ranking them.

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“Let’s enjoy these three extraordinary champions”- Matteo Berrettini on Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic

In the same interview, Berrettini reflected that it is without a doubt that Federer is currently not in the best of his form because of his age. However, he stated that as a tennis fan, one should enjoy watching Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic till the time they are playing the sport.

“It is obvious that we are witnessing Roger’s sunset due to age limits. But let’s enjoy these three extraordinary champions while they are there,” added the World No.8 player.

Matteo Berrettini will begin his US Open 2021 campaign against France’s Jeremy Chardy today. Fans have huge expectations from him and want him to deliver some amazing performances there. Will he be able to lift his maiden Grand Slam title in New York this year?

Also Read: When Will Roger Federer Play After Withdrawing From US Open 2021