Matteo Berrettini gives update on condition after US Open heartbreak: "I have a ruptured ligament, now rehab"

Thursday, 07 September 2023 at 21:58

Matteo Berrettini has provided an update on his recovery from injuries after a heartbreaking experience at the US Open.

Former World No. 6 Berrettini has been dealing with injuries for a large part of this season. Earlier this year, they forced him to miss the Madrid Open, Rome Open, and the French Open, before meaning he was unable to defend his title at the Queen's Club Championships in June.

However, the Italian came back at Wimbledon and surprised everybody by making a run into the fourth round of the grasscourt major, where he was ultimately defeated by eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Berrettini's US Open heartbreak

Coming into the US Open, Berrettini appeared to be doing well as he defeated Ugo Humbert in straight sets in the opening round. However, he faced heartbreak shortly after this when he rolled over his ankle during his second-round match against Arthur Rinderknech.

Berrettini collapsed to the ground and let out a cry of pain and frustration as officials ran to his aid. He was eventually able to stand in order to shake hands with his opponent and the umpire before retiring from the match, but left the venue in a wheelchair.

This left many fans concerned for his wellbeing and unsure of how soon it would be before the 27-year-old could make a return to the sport. However, he has now updated fans with some details on the state of his ankle and his predicted recovery period.

Berrettini has good and bad news for fans

In a statement posted on the player's Instagram page, he wrote that he had both good and bad news.

"Positive news following some further tests that my ankle injury did not cause as much damage as originally feared - I have a ruptured ligament.

"But I’m extremely disappointed that I will not be able to represent Italy in Bologna, or compete in the ATP events in Asia," he wrote.

Berrettini also added that he was starting his rehab and hoped to return shortly after the Shanghai Masters, which will end in mid-October.

"Now I start my intense rehab to hopefully return to tour shortly after the Shanghai Masters. Thank you again for all the kind messages," he continued.