"Roger Federer killed me": Berrettini recalls first meeting with Swiss legend, praises charisma of talent and kindness

Sunday, 06 August 2023 at 20:00

Italy’s Matteo Berrettini has revealed his first meeting with the former world number one Switzerland’s Roger Federer.

The 41-year-old remains one of the most successful players in the history of men’s singles tennis in the Open era.

While talking about it, Berrettini explained how he was ‘killed’ on the court but also claimed that it was ‘beautiful’ to face an opponent like Federer.

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"Federer, without a doubt. The first match against him I didn't even understand where I was, I was so excited,” he said. “And I was at Wimbledon. It killed me, but it was wonderful.

"He's not just a great tennis player, he's a great person. He knows how to be simple, inclusive, he is of course, not artificially, open, friendly. When it passes you feel a special energy. He has the charisma of talent and kindness.”

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Federer finished his career as one of the most decorated men’s players ever, having won as many as 20 Grand Slams.

His most successful competition has been Wimbledon where he ended up lifting the title eight times which is also a record till now.

Federer was the first player in the history of men’s singles tennis to win more than 15 Grand Slams and was also the first to lift 20 major titles.

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Magnifico 🤌 Matteo Berrettini blasts his way into the fourth round defeating No.19 seed Alexander Zverev in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6(4), 7-6(5) 🔥 #Wimbledon

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8:41 PM · Jul 8, 2023

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Azeem Siddiqui

Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.

He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.

In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.

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