Whether this victory is a one-off or the start of something bigger for Matteo Berrettini remains to be seen. But what’s certain is that he has reminded everyone of his capabilities
With the clay season heating up and Roland Garros on the horizon, this could be the spark that reignites Berrettini’s career.
And for tennis fans, moments like these—where the underdog rises, the crowd roars, and even rival players pause to appreciate the moment—are what make the sport truly special.
Berrettini’s victory over Zverev was more than just a scoreline or a step forward in a tournament. It was a statement—a declaration that he’s back, that he still belongs among the best, and that he’s not done dreaming.
For fans of tennis, it was a joy to witness. For Berrettini, it was a return to the very essence of why he fell in love with the sport in the first place.
And with the clay season in full swing, the best may be yet to come.
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Matteo Berrettini Sends Shockwaves Through Monte-Carlo
In one of the most thrilling upsets of the 2025 tennis season so far, Matteo Berrettini stunned World No. 2 Alexander Zverev with a gritty 2-6, 6-3, 7-5 comeback win in the second round of the Monte-Carlo Masters.1
The Italian’s win, his first-ever over a top-two opponent, reverberated far beyond Court Rainier III and left a ripple effect on matches taking place on adjacent courts.
Matteo Berrettini has long been known for his powerful serve and formidable forehand, but this victory stands out as a significant milestone in his career.
Not only was it his first win over a top-two player, but it also came after a difficult start to the match. Zverev raced through the opening set 6-2, appearing to be in complete control. But Berrettini held his nerve, shifted the momentum, and clawed his way back into the contest.
The Italian’s resilience and composure in the deciding set were a testament to his growth as a player. Despite facing the pressure of the occasion and the expectations of a home-friendly crowd, he delivered some of his finest tennis when it mattered most.
Hello twitter world…🧐
— Matteo Berrettini (@MattBerrettini) November 11, 2020
Zverev’s Struggles Continue
For Alexander Zverev, this loss marked his seventh of the season—an unusually high tally for the German, especially considering his runner-up finish at the Australian Open.
Since that heartbreaking loss to Jannik Sinner in Melbourne, Zverev has struggled to maintain consistency.
His defeats in Indian Wells and Miami—to Tallon Griekspoor and Arthur Fils respectively—raised questions about his form, and now, Berrettini has added to the chorus of concern.
Though Zverev started strong in Monte-Carlo, his level dropped considerably in the second and third sets. Unforced errors and mental lapses crept into his game, allowing Berrettini to seize the initiative.
The Monte-Carlo Masters, held in the picturesque setting of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin just beside the Italian border, naturally draws a strong Italian contingent in the crowd.
On Tuesday, that crowd turned Court Rainier III into a fortress of support for Berrettini. Every ace, forehand winner, and hard-fought point was met with booming applause.
When Berrettini finally closed out the match, the crowd erupted in jubilation. The applause was so loud and prolonged that it spilled over into other courts, momentarily halting matches and capturing the attention of everyone in the vicinity.
Matteo Berrettini: Rare Pause on Court des Princes
In an almost surreal scene, the ongoing match between Arthur Fils and Tallon Griekspoor on Court des Princes had to be momentarily paused.2
The noise from Berrettini’s stadium was so intense that the players looked up in confusion, then smiled as they realized what had happened.
It was a moment of camaraderie and shared appreciation. Fils and Griekspoor—who had each recently defeated Zverev themselves—joined the audience in clapping, clearly recognizing the magnitude of Berrettini’s achievement.
Interestingly, the men who paused their match to acknowledge Berrettini’s triumph—Fils and Griekspoor—are the same players who handed Zverev two of his last three losses.
The Emotional Release
It adds an intriguing subplot to Zverev’s current struggles. His losses haven’t just been to top-tier opponents, but also to those ranked lower, signaling a possible dip in confidence or ongoing physical issues.
Berrettini, Griekspoor, and Fils have something in common: they all took the fight to Zverev with aggression and belief. It appears the formula for toppling the German in 2025 may be less about ranking and more about fearless execution.
For Berrettini, the win wasn’t just about ranking points or tournament progression. It was an emotional breakthrough after a challenging period in his career marked by injuries and dips in form.
The Italian had struggled for consistency over the past couple of seasons, often hindered by physical setbacks.
This win serves as a major confidence booster and could signal a turning point. The standing ovation, the chorus of cheers, and the smiles from fellow players reflected not just admiration but genuine happiness for a player who has had to battle through adversity.
Matteo Berrettini Next Up: Musetti or Lehecka
Following his dramatic victory, Berrettini now awaits the winner of Lorenzo Musetti and Jiri Lehecka in the third round. Either matchup promises excitement.3
A clash against Musetti would be an all-Italian affair sure to captivate the crowd, while a duel with Lehecka offers a fresh and intriguing contest.
With the quarterfinals on the line, Berrettini will be eager to maintain his momentum. The emotional high of defeating Zverev can be both a boost and a burden—he’ll need to quickly reset and focus on the task ahead.
Berrettini has always been a fan favorite, especially in Europe. His personality, on-court flair, and sportsmanship have endeared him to spectators around the world. But in recent times, he had somewhat faded from the spotlight due to his injuries and a lack of deep tournament runs.
This win in Monte-Carlo is more than just a stat—it’s a statement. Berrettini is back, and he’s hungry. The way he soaked in the moment after the final point, waving to the crowd and letting the applause wash over him, said it all.
What This Means for the Clay Season
The clay season is only just beginning, and this result could have wider implications. With Zverev’s early exit, the draw in Monte-Carlo opens up significantly.
Meanwhile, Berrettini has thrown his name into the mix as a genuine threat on clay—a surface he has traditionally performed well on, especially at Roland Garros.
If he continues this form, a deep run in Monte-Carlo could be a precursor to a successful clay swing. Players will take note, and fans will be watching closely.
Tennis often delivers unexpected, beautiful moments—and Berrettini’s win over Zverev was one such occasion. The match had everything: drama, emotion, a comeback story, and an atmosphere that was electric. Even for those not watching on Court Rainier III, it was impossible to ignore.
Arthur Fils and Tallon Griekspoor’s pause and applause served as the perfect symbol of the occasion. For one brief moment, the tennis world stood still—not for a final, not for a trophy—but for a man rediscovering his best self on one of the sport’s grand stages.
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Matteo Berrettini Rediscovers Magic in Monte-Carlo
Matteo Berrettini’s inspiring run at the Monte-Carlo Masters has rekindled the fire of a player who once soared into the ATP’s elite ranks.
His victory over Alexander Zverev not only marked a personal triumph, but also signaled the reemergence of a man who has often been derailed by injuries and inconsistency.
More than just another win, it was a moment that symbolized resilience, hunger, and above all, love for the game.
A Redemption Arc Written on Clay
Clay, a surface that has historically tested many, has been Berrettini’s canvas for redemption. The Italian has found solace and dominance on the red dirt over the past year.
With a stunning 17-1 record on clay courts since 2024, Berrettini has developed into a force few expected after a turbulent 2022 and 2023 season filled with injuries.
His titles in Marrakesh, Gstaad, and Kitzbuhel in 2024 reintroduced him as a player who could thrive beyond grass courts.
However, it was the Monte-Carlo Masters—where he suffered a disappointing first-round exit in 2023—that presented a symbolic opportunity for revenge and revival.
Matteo Berrettini: Promotion
Matteo Berrettini promoting his long paid partner Boss’s innerwear on his instagram account.
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“I’ve Been Missing This Atmosphere”
After defeating Alexander Zverev in a high-octane clash, Berrettini revealed how much the atmosphere meant to him. Speaking to the Tennis Channel, the Italian couldn’t help but express his gratitude to the fans.
“I’ve been missing this atmosphere; this kind of fight,” he said, alluding to the energy and intensity he’s been craving during his spells away from the sport. “These are the matches you dream about as a kid.”
Indeed, for someone who has battled setbacks, being able to thrive again on such a prestigious stage rekindles both purpose and perspective.
From Sleepy Start to Roaring Comeback
The match against Zverev was not without drama. The opening set saw Berrettini sluggish and seemingly out of rhythm. As he put it humorously, “In the first set I was asleep.”
However, the turning point came not from tactics, but from the roaring support of the fans. “They were yelling my name to make me wake up,” he said with a smile.
What followed was a reinvigorated display of powerful serving, controlled aggression from the baseline, and smart court coverage—elements that have always defined Berrettini at his best.
Mental Fortitude: The X-Factor
Talent can win you matches, but it’s resilience that builds careers. Berrettini’s ability to shake off a poor first set and regroup speaks volumes about his mental maturity. His journey through injury hell has forged a player who understands the importance of grit.
No longer just a flashy shot-maker, he’s now a battle-hardened veteran with a clear perspective.
As Berrettini steps back into the limelight, his story becomes one of inspiration—especially for young Italian players. He represents more than just national pride; he embodies perseverance.
Many young athletes give up when adversity strikes, but Berrettini’s journey reminds them that setbacks are just setups for comebacks.
Fan Connection: A Two-Way Street
There’s a reason Berrettini’s fan base has remained loyal through thick and thin—he’s always worn his heart on his sleeve. Whether it’s sharing post-match reflections, engaging with fans online, or joking about being “asleep” in the first set, his authenticity resonates.
It’s not just his serve or forehand that wins hearts; it’s the man behind the racket.
With the Monte-Carlo momentum firmly in hand, Berrettini now turns his attention to the Italian Open in Rome—a tournament that holds emotional value for him.
A strong showing there could elevate him further in the rankings and serve as a launchpad for a potentially career-defining performance at Roland Garros.
Given his form and attitude, don’t be surprised if Berrettini becomes one of the dark horses in Paris.
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