Berrettini-Musetti drama takes an unexpected turn as Brad Gilbert recalls tennis history: “These kind of things have happened forever in men's tennis”

Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 01:00

Brad Gilbert has weighed in on the growing speculation surrounding Matteo Berrettini and Lorenzo Musetti, recalling past disputes between teammates in men's tennis. The former world No. 4 addressed the situation as rumours about a possible breakdown in the Italian players' relationship continue to circulate at Vienna Open.

The controversy began after Berrettini appeared uncomfortable when asked about Musetti's recent title triumph at the Lyon Open. His hesitant response, alongside reports about their social media activity and Berrettini's omission from Italy's upcoming Davis Cup Finals squad, has fuelled speculation that the two compatriots are no longer on good terms.

Rumours have also linked the alleged rift to Berrettini's former relationship with Italian dancer Vanessa Bellini. However, the claims circulating online remain unverified, and Bellini has publicly denied accusations of infidelity. Neither Berrettini nor Musetti has confirmed that the rumours have anything to do with their relationship.

Speaking on The Big T Podcast, Gilbert was asked about the situation and pointed to previous incidents involving players who struggled to get along, including a particularly tense episode during the 1981 Davis Cup final between the United States and Argentina.

Brad Gilbert recalls historic tennis disputes amid Berrettini-Musetti rumours

Gilbert began by recalling the relationship between Argentine players José Luis Clerc and Guillermo Vilas, who faced John McEnroe and Peter Fleming in the 1981 Davis Cup final.

He described how the two Argentinians kept their distance from each other during the tie, despite representing the same country in one of tennis's biggest team competitions. “Well, this is not the first, you know, compadres to have some issues with each other."

“There there's been numerous things like this. I can remember in 1981 Davis Cup final United States versus Argentina when Jose Luis Clerc and Vilas were playing McEnroe and Fleming, one would come over on the changeover and sit; the other would go to the other side of the court and the match ended up being eleven nine in the fifth."

“They didn't even talk to each other. So huge controversy. The Czech guys for years have had issues.”

Gilbert then turned to the role social media plays in the way these situations are discussed today, recalling that tensions between players could become heated even before online platforms made them a public spectacle.

“So today in today's social media, it nothing surprises me. I mean, we had blow ups and maybe almost fisticuffs in the locker room over things like this. But these days with Twitter, you don't know exactly," the former Andy Roddick coach added. “But like I said, these kind of things have happened forever in men's tennis.”

Berrettini's awkward interview and Davis Cup omission add to the intrigue

The latest speculation gathered momentum on Monday after Berrettini defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry 6-3, 6-4 in Vienna. Asked whether Musetti's Lyon title could serve as inspiration, Berrettini paused before asking, “Is it live?” He then gave a restrained response, saying Musetti had worked hard to return to form and deserved the title, before walking away from the camera.

Musetti's victory in Lyon was a significant milestone. The Italian claimed his first title since 2022 after losing seven consecutive finals, making the result an important breakthrough following a difficult stretch in championship matches. Berrettini's reaction, however, quickly became a talking point of its own.

SO SHADY LMAOOOOO https://t.co/BjmVZ8ylrV
— perk!! #5INLONDON 🎾🇦🇺 (@perkszee) October 26, 2026

Reports that the pair had unfollowed each other on Instagram added to the speculation. The rumours have also been linked online to Berrettini's past relationship with Bellini, although there is no confirmed evidence that the alleged personal dispute explains the players' apparent distance.

The situation has attracted further attention because Italy captain Filippo Volandri selected Musetti for the Davis Cup Finals in Bologna but left Berrettini out of the squad. Volandri has said that selections depend on current rankings and players' availability. Berrettini is ranked No. 48, while Musetti sits at No. 26.

Read also

There is no confirmed evidence that the selection decision was connected to the rumours. Meanwhile, the Vienna draw offers the possibility of another chapter in the story, as the Italians could meet in the semifinals if both continue progressing. Berrettini faces compatriot Flavio Cobolli in the round of 16, while Musetti takes on Arthur Fery.

For now, neither player has publicly confirmed the reason for the reported tension. Gilbert's recollections provide a historical perspective on the situation, but the circumstances behind the speculation surrounding the two Italians remain unclear.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

See author's posts

claps 0visitors 0

Vienna Open 2026: Results, Draw, Entry List, Prize Money and History

Bianca Andreescu eyes top-100 return after extending winning streak: “I think I played excellent tennis today"