I’m Losing It: Matteo Berrettini Caught in Huge Controversy As Tennis’ Golden Boy Tends to Losing Focus Due to…
Italian tennis star Matteo Berrettini, once hailed as the future of men’s tennis, now finds himself at the center of a storm of controversy. The former Wimbledon finalist, known for his charm, power game, and striking good looks, has recently sparked headlines for reasons far beyond the tennis court—and many are questioning whether the 27-year-old is losing sight of what truly matters: his game.
Berrettini, who has been plagued by injuries in the past two seasons, has been under scrutiny for his sudden shift in focus towards media appearances, fashion endorsements, and high-profile social events. While Berrettini’s marketability has never been in question—gracing the covers of magazines and modeling for top fashion brands—his performance on the court has taken a significant nosedive. In 2024, he struggled to regain his once-dominant form, falling out of the top 20 in the ATP rankings and suffering multiple early exits in major tournaments.
This dip in form coincides with what many see as a growing distraction from tennis. Critics have accused Berrettini of prioritizing his off-court image over his professional career, citing his recent appearances at glitzy galas, celebrity parties, and even rumors of a budding romance with a major Hollywood actress. Social media is ablaze with fans expressing frustration, suggesting that Berrettini is more focused on fame than fighting for Grand Slam titles. The whispers have become louder: Has Matteo Berrettini become more of a celebrity than an athlete?
Adding fuel to the fire, Berrettini’s latest Instagram post, which features him lounging on a luxury yacht while recovering from his latest injury, has drawn ire from fans. “Shouldn’t you be focusing on your recovery, Matteo?” one comment read, while another remarked, “It seems like you’re enjoying the good life more than working to get back on the court.” The backlash has led many to question whether the Italian sensation is serious about reclaiming his place among the top players.
Even more controversial is the suggestion from some tennis insiders that Berrettini’s camp has been pushing for more off-court engagements, eyeing a transition from tennis star to global brand ambassador, possibly even Hollywood. This has raised eyebrows within the tennis community, with some questioning whether Berrettini has the dedication to rise back to the top, or if he’s more interested in walking red carpets than winning matches.
For fans of Berrettini, this latest chapter is difficult to watch. The man who, in 2021, seemed poised to break into the elite ranks of the sport, is now seen as a player in danger of squandering his talent. His decline has not gone unnoticed by fellow players, either, with some reportedly growing frustrated by his increasing absence from key tournaments due to injuries or personal commitments.
“Matteo has everything—he’s got the game, the physique, and the charm,” one former player commented anonymously. “But tennis is unforgiving. If you’re not all in, you’re out. Fame doesn’t win you Grand Slams.”
With the 2024 season approaching a critical juncture, many are wondering if Berrettini can silence his critics, refocus, and return to the form that made him one of the sport’s brightest stars—or if his off-court distractions will permanently derail what was once considered a promising career.
Due to… the increasing tension between his life as a tennis player and his growing status as a global celebrity.
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Alcaraz Admits To Struggles With Motivation Because Of Packed Schedule
by Zachary Wimer
Carlos Alcaraz has talked about the long schedule many times in the past, and it’s impacted his motivation, as he finds it tough to find it at times.
The tennis calendar is very tough and long, which is really tricky for the players, and quite a few of them have voiced their displeasure with it. Alcaraz is one of those, and he’s been particularly active on that front lately, talking about the demanding calendar quite often.
It became a topic again when he mentioned it during the 2024 Laver Cup, and the 21-year-old Spaniard didn’t hold back. He said that he doesn’t like the calendar expanding anymore because this is already quite difficult for the players, but it doesn’t seem like his advice will be listened to.
The calendar has been expanding for a while and will continue to do so because when money gets involved, corporations—which tennis is—likely won’t go the route that yields less profit.
The impacts on players are many, from fatigue to decreased longevity to even motivation. The Spaniard spoke about the length of the calendar and how it impacts his motivation, which is something not many players talked about.
“Well, honestly it is difficult. I mean, sometimes I didn’t feel motivated at all. It is a difficult moment. As I said many times, you know, the calendar is so tight, a lot of tournaments, no days off or not as much days off as I want.”
“Sometimes I really want to take some days for myself that I can’t because I have to practice, I have to travel, I have to, you know, the jet lag sometimes when you’re traveling around the world.”
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“So sometimes you don’t want to go to tournaments, I’m not gonna lie. I have been feeling this, you know, this feeling few times already that I don’t want to go to that tournament because I want to stay at home with my family or my friends, and I have to find the motivation just to go and put the right tennis or the right face in the practice and on the matches.”
None of this should be particularly shocking because players are human, and regular people struggle. Not being motivated enough at times is certainly something that all people feel, whatever their occupation.
While Alcaraz loves tennis and enjoys being on the court, there are other things in life that, on some days, seem more appealing or important. Of course, fatigue also plays role.
“I’m business guy. I always want to win every match that I go, but as I said many, many times, my best tennis show up when I’m smiling and enjoying on court, and sometimes difficult to find that rhythm or that good feeling.”
“So, I mean, I want to be focused on my team and my family and try to play my best in every practice, in every match, to be in the top of the ranking. I think it is the best options to keep motivated.”
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