Matteo Berrettini’s run at the 2023 U.S. Open came to a devastating end Thursday when he suffered a brutal ankle injury and left the tournament in a wheelchair.
During a second-round match against France’s Arthur Rinderknech at Flushing Meadows, Berrettini — a 2021 Wimbledon finalist — appeared to roll his ankle as he attempted to return the ball.
The 27-year-old could then be seen writhing in pain on the ground before letting out a gut-wrenching scream as he was tended to by medical personnel.
Berrettini, who fell behind Rinderknech, 4-6, 3-5, retired from the match.
He was later seen holding his head in his hands while sitting in a wheelchair, according to footage of the harrowing scene.
“Matteo Berrettini left the US Open in a wheelchair,” The Tennis Letter account posted to their page on X.
“It’s difficult to explain just how horrific his luck has been. The amount of injuries he’s had just isn’t right.”
Berrettini, who was once ranked No. 6 in the world, has long struggled with injuries.
He withdrew from the Queen’s Club Championships in June due to an abdominal injury.
Prior to that, Berrettini underwent surgery on his hand in 2022.
Amid the setbacks, Berrettini has relied on his inner circle, including girlfriend Melissa Satta.
“They kind of put me in a position where I had to fight again,” he told the ATP Tour in August.
Despite his heart-wrenching end at the U.S. Open, Berrettini has the support of the tennis community as he continues his recovery.
“Life is brutal sometimes, hope he comes back stronger..,” one supporter penned on social media, according to The Sun.
Another fan remarked, “Speedy recovery, Matteo!”
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