TENNIS: Berrettini taps 'psycho' mentality for injury comebacks

PARIS — Italian tennis player Matteo Berrettini said he was “a little bit psycho” for continuing to fight through injuries after securing a four-set victory over Marton Fucsovics in the opening round of the French Open on Monday.

Berrettini defeated Fucsovics 6-7(2), 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 in his first appearance at French Open since 2021, marking another comeback chapter in a career repeatedly disrupted by injuries.

The former world No. 6 has missed eight of the last 18 Grand Slam tournaments since finishing runner-up to Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon five years ago. Despite his ranking dropping to No. 105 in the world, Berrettini said injuries have been part of his life since childhood and have strengthened his mentality.

Speaking to reporters after the match, the 30-year-old said he remains proud of his achievements despite the setbacks. He explained that injuries often bring frustration and self-doubt, but he has learned to embrace the challenge of returning to competition.

Berrettini added that his powerful playing style, highlighted by his strong serve and forehand, may contribute to his physical struggles. However, he believes his resilience and determination have helped him repeatedly bounce back from difficult periods in his career.

The Italian said he enjoys competing and pushing himself in situations where many players would struggle, describing himself as someone who thrives on the challenge of fighting back.

Berrettini will next face French player Arthur Rinderknech in the second round at Roland Garros.

Although focused on his current campaign in Paris, Berrettini is already looking ahead to Wimbledon next month. He admitted he may need a wild card entry to compete at the All England Club but said he is prepared to go through qualifying if necessary.

Berrettini said rankings are less important to him than being physically capable of competing at his best, adding that Wimbledon remains one of his favorite tournaments despite last year’s disappointment when he was unable to perform the way he wanted due to fitness issues. -Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Paris, editing by Pritha Sarkar/Reuters