Alex de Minaur Sets ATP Record as Matteo Berrettini Retires in Tears at Italian Open
Alex de Minaur has become the only ATP player in 2025 to reach the round of 16 in every Masters 1000 event so far this year, following his 6-4, 6-4 victory over Hugo Dellien at the Italian Open. However, the milestone was overshadowed by an emotional moment on Monday night as Italy’s Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire hurt in his match against Casper Ruud.
Berrettini, trailing 5-7, 0-2, left the court in tears, devastated to withdraw in front of a home crowd in Rome. The 29-year-old has struggled with recurring injuries throughout his career and was making his first appearance at the Italian Open since 2021. He also retired from his previous match in Madrid last month due to an abdominal issue.
After the match, Ruud wrote “Sorry Matteo. Feel better!” on a camera lens in a show of support. “I know he’s worked hard to come back,” said Ruud. “I hope it’s not a long setback.”
Meanwhile, de Minaur’s win was not without disruption. The match was paused twice—first due to a medical emergency in the crowd, and later during a flyover by Italy’s Frecce Tricolori air display team. The Australian lost his rhythm briefly, surrendering a break, but recovered to close out the match and continue his exceptional consistency in 2025.
“I didn’t handle it very well. I got broken straight away,” de Minaur admitted. “I did well to bounce back, but I need to improve mentally and not let external things affect me.” He will next face 12th seed Tommy Paul.
Elsewhere, World No.1 Jannik Sinner returned to action after a three-month doping suspension, defeating Jesper de Jong 6-4, 6-2. Sinner now prepares to face Francisco Cerundolo, who eliminated him in Rome in 2023. Over 10,000 fans packed the stands to watch the Italian star, who aims to become the first home champion in Rome in nearly five decades.
“Tomorrow will be a big day,” said Sinner. “Cerundolo has been playing well, and I’ll need to be at my best.”
Paul, who beat Tomas Machac in a tight three-setter, also praised Sinner: “He sets the bar right now. It’s good to have him back.”
