“I was outplayed by just a better player today,” Novak Djokovic made a telling remark after being defeated by Italy’s Matteo Berrettini at the Qatar Open just over a week ago. And why wouldn’t he? The Italian has been on a relentless mission to reclaim the reputation he built after his remarkable run to the 2021 Wimbledon final. His dedication is finally paying off as he has now defeated French star Gaël Monfils in the first round and is back in the top 30 in the ATP rankings. As he steadily finds his form, Berrettini takes a moment to reflect on the injury-plagued phase that derailed his career nearly a year ago, offering his thoughts on the struggles he endured.

The former World No. 6 Berrettini didn’t start the new season with a bang. After a 2nd round exit at the Australian Open, he suffered an early R32 defeat at the ATP Rotterdam Open as well. However, he rediscovered his vintage form at the Qatar Open, where he not only defeated Novak Djokovic for the first time but also battled his way to the QF before bowing out against British Jack Draper. Now, his campaign at the Dubai Tennis Championships is off to a promising start.

In his opening match in Dubai, the 28-year-old faced French veteran Gaël Monfils in the R32, securing an impressive straight-sets victory, 7-5, 6-4. Berrettini also delivered seven aces throughout the match while managing to maintain a healthy 78% of the first serves. And, Right after his win against Monfils, the Italian added his remarks when asked about getting back to the top 30 in the ATP rankings.

 “It means a lot. Last year this time I wasn’t even playing. I was training with a lot of question marks. Our sport goes so fast. Sometimes we take it for granted. But I’m trying to not do that. I’m really proud of the work I’ve put in with my team, with the people who love me. I’m really proud of what I’m doing. I also wanna do a little bit more. Let’s see how it goes,” Berrettini said. But what happened to him last year?

The Italian has endured a career riddled with setbacks, and 2023 was particularly cruel for him, as injuries repeatedly derailed his momentum. In February 2023, a right leg issue forced Berrettini to retire mid-match during the ‘Acapulco’ quarterfinal against Holger Rune. Later in the year, misfortune struck again, as he ruptured a right ankle ligament at the US Open, compelling him to withdraw in the second set of his 2nd round clash against Arthur Rinderknech.

Despite these major career struggles, Berrettini still managed to showcase his undeniable talent at Wimbledon in 2023, where he delivered his most notable performance of the season. His run to the 4th round included impressive victories over top players like Alex de Minaur and Alexander Zverev before he fell to the eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz in a hard-fought four-set battle.

As things stand in Dubai, Berrettini will next face Christopher O’Connell, who advanced to R16 after Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov was forced to retire mid-match due to an injury. O’Connell had won the first set 6-0 before Dimitrov pulled out.

The 30-year-old Australian might prove to be a tricky opponent for Berrettini. But after an emphatic victory over Monfils, the Italian is high on confidence.

“I’m feeling the energy” — Matteo Berrettini shared his views after his win against Gaël Monfils

It took Berrettini just 83 minutes to dispatch an experienced campaigner like Monfils as he beat the Frenchman in straight sets by 7-5, 6-4. But before that, it was at the Qatar Open that the Italian truly regained his form.

He stunned the 24-time GS champion Novak Djokovic in Doha with a commanding 7-6 (7-4), 6-2 win. The Italian then followed it up with a gritty triumph over Tallon Griekspoor in a battle featuring two intense tiebreakers, ultimately prevailing 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (8-6), 6-4. However, his run came to an end against Britain’s Jack Draper, despite claiming the first set convincingly.

After his latest victory over Monfils in Dubai, Berrettini reflected on his journey, acknowledging that the ‘Qatar Open’ played a crucial role in helping him rediscover his rhythm ahead of the Dubai Open. “It was a great tournament, great matches, great fights. It gave me a lot of confidence coming here. It’s been a long time since I played here. I’m feeling the energy and hopefully, it’s going to be a long week” he remarked.

This will be Berrettini’s second meeting with Christopher O’Connell on the ATP Tour. He leads the H2h by 1-0 at the moment and is a strong favorite to extend the lead. Are you backing the Italian to make it to the quarters? Share your thoughts in the comments below.