Matteo Berrettini has never hidden the name of his sporting idol in the world of tennis. It’s Roger Federer, a player he once championed until he started playing steadily in the big tournaments.
The Italian had two chances to face the Swiss legend, back in 2019
. The first time was at Wimbledon and the second time at the ATP Finals in London. After a massive defeat on the All England Club’s pitch, Berrettini happily accepted defeat and joked as he greeted Federer: “Thanks for the lesson, Roger!” In a long and interesting conversation with Gianluca Gazzoli, creator of the BSMT format, the Italian recalled that game and the emotions he felt at the Laver Cup on the occasion of Federer’s retirement.
Berrettini and Roger Federer’s tearful speech
Berrettini said: “The first time I played against Federer at Wimbledon in 2019, I won five games. I just couldn’t get into the rhythm of the game.
It was the fourth round, I was loaded. I went on the field and said: It’s not true that I’m playing against him. A few years earlier I was rooting for him. It was a wonderful experience that taught me a lot.
It wasn’t easy at all. He played his final game at the Laver Cup last year and I was fortunate and honored to be a part of it. He cried and told us: You have no idea how lucky you are to be able to keep playing.
I would give anything Despite all the love people have for him, after a once in a lifetime career, you could still see that desire to play and have fun in his eyes. It was a lesson I will carry with me forever.
It was really exciting four days. Novak Djokovic? It’s hard to beat him. He never said it, but he likes playing against me as far as the game is concerned. Alongside Federer and Rafael Nadal, he is one of the greatest players in tennis history and I am amazed by his desire to keep going back there.
He’s won everything and it’s amazing how he keeps finding that fire. The extra inch he creates, that competitive spirit, is impressive. It’s the hallmark of all great athletes.”
2023-05-22 18:48:52
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