In a heartfelt announcement following Italy’s triumphant 2024 Davis Cup campaign, Matteo Berrettini praised his teammate Jannik Sinner as both his ultimate inspiration and a paragon of humility. Sinner, currently ranked World No. 1, capped off an extraordinary season by leading Italy to their second consecutive Davis Cup title in Malaga, Spain. Describing Sinner as “special” and “the most humble player there is,” Berrettini, the 2021 Wimbledon runner-up, underscored the significance of his teammate’s contributions both on and off the court. Sinner’s stunning 2024 season included victories at the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals, where he went undefeated. In the Davis Cup, he delivered commanding performances, winning three singles matches and a pivotal doubles encounter to guide Italy past Argentina, Australia, and the Netherlands.
Berrettini reflected on his teammate’s unique abilities, saying, “I think I speak for everyone—it’s a special experience. Last year, when we were here, we looked at each other and said, ‘this guy is special, he is different.’” The 28-year-old highlighted Sinner’s ability to hit with precision, power, and consistency, qualities that have elevated him to the top of the tennis world.
Berrettini also praised Sinner’s leadership and selflessness. “Before entering the doubles against Argentina, he asked the whole team if anyone was okay with that decision. That is something special. His tennis is incredible, but it’s about how he manages everything off the court and the way he relates to people,” Berrettini said.
Looking back, Berrettini offered advice to his younger self from a year ago, urging resilience and faith in the journey. “Last year was really nice to be here, but at the same time, I remember a moment thinking, ‘Why did I come?’ But being part of the team and seeing their success gave me so much energy and motivation to return stronger this year.”
Matteo Berrettini’s Comeback Story in 2024
For Berrettini, the 2024 season marked a personal renaissance. After enduring a grueling 2023 season marred by an ankle injury at the US Open, he missed six months of competition and fell in the rankings. Watching Italy claim the Davis Cup title from the sidelines in 2023 was bittersweet but fueled his determination to return stronger.
Berrettini’s comeback was pivotal for Italy’s Davis Cup defense. Demonstrating his ability to thrive on the big stage, he delivered a crucial victory over Botic van de Zandschulp with a commanding 6-4 6-3 win in the semifinals. His performance solidified Italy’s position as the favorites and underscored the 28-year-old capability to compete at the highest level when healthy.
Italy’s back-to-back Davis Cup triumphs have cemented their place in history, with Berrettini playing a key role in their latest victory. For the 2021 Wimbledon Finalist, the journey from injury and doubt to contributing to his nation’s glory has been as much about personal redemption as it has been about team success.
As Matteo Berrettini looks ahead, the inspiration drawn from Jannik Sinner and the shared triumphs of the Davis Cup will undoubtedly continue to fuel his drive to reclaim a spot among the world’s elite players. In 2021, the 28-year-old was the sole torchbearer for Italian tennis, reaching the Wimbledon final and breaking into the top 10. Fast forward to 2024, and he now shares the spotlight with two remarkable compatriots—World No. 1 Sinner and Olympic bronze medalist Lorenzo Musetti.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
