I Didn’t Talk to Anybody: Berrettini Reveals Brutal Reality of Recent Struggles as He Plans Withdrawal from…

 

Matteo Berrettini, once one of the brightest stars on the ATP Tour, has revealed the harsh reality of his recent struggles in a candid interview. The Italian tennis sensation opened up about the physical and mental toll his ongoing injuries and lack of form have taken on him, admitting that he has reached a point where he didn’t even talk to anyone for days. This emotional and vulnerable confession comes as Berrettini is now considering withdrawing from several upcoming tournaments, sparking concerns about his future in the sport.

A Series of Setbacks: Physical and Emotional Challenges

Berrettini has been plagued by injuries throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons, with his body repeatedly letting him down at crucial moments. The once-dominant player, known for his powerful serve and aggressive style, has struggled to maintain the same level of performance that saw him reach the Wimbledon final in 2021 and secure multiple ATP titles.

In his recent revelation, Berrettini discussed how difficult it has been to cope with the cycle of recovery and disappointment, especially after setbacks such as his early exits in key tournaments and withdrawals due to fitness issues. “It’s been incredibly tough, physically and mentally,” Berrettini shared. “Every time I feel like I’m getting back to where I want to be, something pulls me back.”

The Italian went on to reveal that his injury woes had left him isolated: “There were moments when I didn’t talk to anybody, not my family, not my friends, not even my team. I just needed to be alone and process everything.”

The Weight of Expectations: Mental Fatigue and Pressures

While physical injuries have clearly been a factor in Berrettini’s recent decline, the pressure and expectations from fans, media, and even himself have only intensified the challenges. As one of Italy’s most prominent sports figures, the weight on his shoulders has been immense, particularly as he strives to live up to his former success.

“I know what people expect from me, and I expect a lot from myself. But sometimes, you just can’t meet those expectations, and it’s hard to deal with,” he explained. “I love tennis, and I love competing, but lately, it’s been more about trying to survive out there rather than enjoying it.”

Berrettini’s candidness highlights the mental toll that injuries and inconsistent form can have on a professional athlete. Unlike physical setbacks, the emotional toll of prolonged struggles can leave lasting scars, even for players as mentally tough as Berrettini.

Planned Withdrawals and an Uncertain Future

Amid his ongoing struggles, Berrettini confirmed that he is seriously considering withdrawing from several upcoming tournaments, including high-profile events that could further impact his ranking. While he did not provide specific details about which tournaments he plans to skip, speculation is rife that he could miss some major ATP events and even the Australian Open in 2025 if his recovery does not improve.

The 27-year-old’s decision to step away from competition is not one he is taking lightly, but it may be necessary to protect his long-term health. “At this point, I have to think about my future, not just my career but my overall well-being,” Berrettini said. “If that means stepping away from some tournaments to recover fully, then that’s what I need to do.”

His potential withdrawals have sparked concern among fans and tennis commentators, with many questioning whether Berrettini will be able to return to his previous form or if he might consider a more extended break from the sport. The possibility of him missing the first Grand Slam of the year would be a significant blow to his season ambitions.

Support from the Tennis Community

Despite his struggles, Berrettini has received an outpouring of support from the tennis community. Fellow players, coaches, and fans have rallied around the Italian, offering messages of encouragement and understanding. Some of his closest colleagues, including those who have experienced similar struggles, have expressed their belief that Berrettini will bounce back stronger.

“Matteo is one of the toughest guys on the tour, and we all know what he’s capable of,” said a fellow ATP player. “Injuries can get to any of us, but he’s got the mindset to fight through it. We’re all rooting for him.”

Many have also pointed to Berrettini’s previous comebacks as a sign that he has the resilience to overcome this current period of uncertainty. However, it remains to be seen how much longer he will continue to fight through the pain before making more permanent decisions about his future in tennis.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Berrettini?

As Matteo Berrettini navigates this challenging chapter in his career, his fans and the wider tennis world are left wondering what lies ahead for the talented Italian. While he has shown a remarkable ability to bounce back from adversity in the past, the combination of physical injuries and mental fatigue could require a longer and more deliberate recovery period this time around.

For now, Berrettini’s focus appears to be on healing—both physically and emotionally. His decision to withdraw from certain tournaments may be the first step toward regaining his form, but it also raises questions about whether he will return to the top level of the sport.

“I’m not giving up,” Berrettini assured his fans. “I just need time to get back to where I want to be. I know I can do it, but it’s going to take patience and a lot of hard work.”

Conclusion: A Critical Juncture in Berrettini’s Career

Matteo Berrettini’s recent struggles, both physical and emotional, have brought him to a critical juncture in his career. His potential withdrawals from upcoming tournaments indicate that he is prioritizing his long-term health, but they also underscore the uncertainties surrounding his future in tennis.

Berrettini’s candid admission that he “didn’t talk to anybody” during his lowest points highlights the mental toll that professional sports can take on athletes, especially those who have tasted success at the highest level. Yet, his determination to return to the court and his ongoing love for the game suggest that the Italian is far from finished.

As the tennis world watches and waits, Berrettini’s next steps will likely define the trajectory of his career in the coming years. Will he return to the form that made him a Wimbledon finalist, or will this period of struggle mark a more permanent shift in his journey? Only time will tell.