Italian star Matteo Berrettini overcame Filip Krajinovic 7-5, 6-4 in the Queen's final this Sunday to claim what was his second title in two weeks. This all comes after an extended break from the sport due to injury.
Speaking to the press after the game, the Italian, whose game is perfectly apt for the grass, appeared emotional and on the verge of tears.
This victory comes after he claimed the Stuttgart trophy last week where he defeated Andy Murray in the final. That win, combined with Queen's, the Italian has now dropped just four sets in his last nine matches, proving why he is one of the best grass court players around. but more importantly, in the wake of his time out due to injury.
More importantly, these two titles come in the wake of almost three months out due to injury. With his lack of recent playing in mind, it really is the come back of dreams for the heavy-serving star.
It is no wonder as to why he is pipped to be one of the favourites for Wimbledon which is now just around the corner, with the Italian now able to go into the tournament at SW19 full of confidence.
Following the win on the prestigious courts of the Queen's Club, Berrettini had the following to say:
“There are so many emotions. The last thing I expected was to come back from surgery and win two titles in a row, defend my title here at one of the most prestigious tournaments we have. I don’t want to cry. Most of the job is thanks to them, my team and my family. I just can’t believe it.”
"I arrived in Stuttgart and was not feeling great. I was not hitting the ball how I wanted and I was like 'Guys, I think it is going to be tough'. But it has gone pretty well!"
All that is left to see now is if he can pull it off when all the eyes of the tennis world are watching at the third Grand Slam of the year. He will be hoping to go one better than last year, when he reached the final at the All England Club, coming second best to Novak Djokovic.