Matteo Berrettini went through a difficult experience in his first-round match at the 2023 Stuttgart Open.
The tall Italian, also nicknamed The Hammer, returned to the tennis courts after a two-month hiatus, when he missed the majority of the clay-court season. But Berrettini was back to the ATP Tour when he entered the 2023 Stuttgart Open as the defending champion.
However, his comeback to the grass courts wasn't as he imagined it after completing last season on this surface without losing a single match. In the first round, Berrettini won only three games against fellow compatriot Lorenzo Sonego, a result he couldn't be happy with.
It comes as a big disappointment and realization for the Italian, as the match clearly showed him that he's far from the level that took him to the 2021 Wimbledon final. Berrettini left the court in tears after the match, and he also issued a statement, describing his experience.
"Firstly, congratulations to my close friend Lorenzo Sonego on yesterday’s win. Yesterday was a very tough day. Despite feeling match fit and ready. I clearly was not. I have worked extremely hard to recover from my latest injury and to not have the dream return like I had last year is difficult to process."
While he didn't forget to congratulate his opponent and good friend on his victory, he reminded his fans that he needs to stay realistic and focus on the process, rather than results that may be unrealistic right now.
Up next, Berrettini wants to prepare for the 2023 Cinch Championships at the Queen's Club where he's featured on the entry list, and where he also holds the same status as in Stuttgart, the defending champion.
"But I need to be realistic, my best level will take time and matches. I am putting in the work and the results will follow. I am fully focused on doing all I can to be match ready for Queen’s. Thank you very much for all the support and kind messages I have received. They really mean a lot."
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