Matteo Berrettini recently demonstrated his goalkeeping skills in a practice session before the highly anticipated 2023 Miami Open.
Following a disappointing loss in the opening round of the 2023 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Berrettini made the decision to accept a wildcard invitation to participate in the ATP Challenger event held in Phoenix, Arizona.
Unfortunately, his efforts were in vain as he was defeated by Alexander Shevchenko 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in the quarterfinals in Pheonix.
On March 22, Tennis TV shared a video of Berrettini goalkeeping during a practice session leading up to the Floridian Masters 1000 tournament. Unfortunately, Berrettini’s goalkeeping abilities left much to be desired, and he couldn’t help but laugh when he failed to prevent the ball from entering the goalpost.
The 26-year-old shared the video on his Instagram and tagged Gianluigi Donnarumma, the goalkeeper of Italy’s national football team. In his caption, Berrettini humorously stated that he would leave the goalkeeping duties for the Italian custodian.
Matteo Berrettini’s 2023 season off to a shaky start
Matteo Berrettini has struggled to find his footing in the new season after a lackluster performance in 2022. He has only managed to secure eight wins while suffering six losses.
The former World No. 6 began his campaign at the United Cup on a positive start, securing three consecutive victories and only suffering two losses for Team Italy. However, his luck took a turn for the worse at the Australian Open, where he was defending his semi-final appearance from the previous year.
Unfortunately, the 26-year-old experienced an early exit from the tournament after losing in the opening round to Andy Murray. Despite having a match point, Berrettini was unable to convert it, resulting in his defeat.
The Italian made a comeback at the 2023 Mexican Open in Acapulco. After reaching the quarterfinals, Berrettini was forced to retire mid-match against Holger Rune due to a supposed calf injury. His next performance in Indian Wells was lackluster as well, and he was eliminated in the Round of 64 by Japan’s Taro Daniel.
The Italian’s quick departure from the Indian Wells Open and the quarterfinals of the Arizona Tennis Classic has left his fans feeling extremely disappointed.
Matteo Berrettini will hope to regain his footing at the upcoming 2023 Miami Open, where he begins his campaign on March 24.