via Imago
Image Credits: Imago
via Imago
Image Credits: Imago
Matteo Berrettini, who was all set to make a triumphant comeback after a series of disappointments in the recent few months, suffered another shocker at the US Open. The Italian player, who comfortably won the first round at the Flushing Meadows, appeared to be in sublime form. However, little did he know that fate had some other plans for him.
The drama unfolded at the US Open as the Italian faced a dramatic halt during his second-round duel against Arthur Rinderknech. In a crucial moment of the match, Berrettini’s unexpected and ill-fated tumble brought the proceedings to a jarring standstill. Not only this, but the severity of the injury was clearly evident after his anxious team immediately rushed to his rescue.
Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire hurt mid-match after an ankle injury
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Despite trailing by a set, Berrettini had been seeking a resurgence in the second, with the score at 6-4, 5-3 in favor of Rinderknech. The match took a heartbreaking turn when Berrettini, locked in fierce competition, fell abruptly to the ground, forcing an untimely end to his campaign.
Matteo Berrettini retires to Rinderknech after rolling his ankle.
He had the trainers look at his injury, but he just couldn’t continue.
He has the worst luck in men’s tennis.
He was just starting to find his game, & now this
So many injuries. This is just unfair. ❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/CRLugAacAg
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 31, 2023
The shockwave of the fall resulted in a walkover victory for Rinderknech, but the unforeseen exit left a lingering air of uncertainty and concern. On the sidelines, Berrettini’s father and the physio hastened to assess the situation, as the abrupt conclusion cast a light on what had promised to be a gripping showdown at the iconic US Open. However, while returning to his bench, he received a standing ovation from the fans as they honored him for the efforts that he put into the match. Amid the result, his undying spirit to go until the end was something that fascinated everybody.
The Italian, who had a rather disappointing run in the recent few months, was eager to leave a mark. However, fate decided otherwise for the former World No. 6 player. Further reports will reveal the severity of the incident. Till then, his fans will be hoping for him to make a speedy comeback.
Berrettini joins the list of big names to exit in the tournament’s early stages
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With the loss, he joined a list of some of the top athletes to have lost in the shallow end of the US Open. Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Bublik, John Isner, and now Matteo Berrettini have found little to rejoice about at Flushing Meadows. With many big names crashing out prematurely, the draw has been blown wide open for two polar outcomes.
Arthur Rinderknech is into Round 3 after Matteo Berrettini retires due to injury. pic.twitter.com/jwHyVB8Ii7
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 31, 2023
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On one hand, the underdogs may just have a fighting chance and may possibly make history. After all, the US Open is no stranger to massive upsets and insane wildcard victories. But on the other lies a familiar — and, for many — a slightly more tantalizing prospect. A nail-biting final between legends may also be on the cards, perhaps between a veteran player and a trailblazing Gen Z star? What will it be? Let us know your thoughts and anticipations in the comments below!
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