Italian Matteo Berrettini said he was “a little bit psycho” for embracing the grind of injury comebacks following his 6-7(2), 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 win over Marton Fucsovics on Monday in his first French Open appearance since 2021.
Once ranked as high as No. 6 in the world, Berrettini has struggled with fitness issues and missed eight out of the 18 Grand Slams since his runner-up finish to Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon five years ago.
Berrettini has slipped down the rankings with World No. 1 Jannik Sinner now leading Italy’s hopes at the majors, but the 30-year-old said injuries were something that he had faced since a young age.
“When injuries come, you’re always negative and you don’t want to stop, and you think ‘I could have done this’ or ‘I could have done that’ but I look in the mirror and I’m so proud of my career and what I’ve achieved,” Berrettini told reporters.
“Those who know me since I was a kid know I’ve been getting injured since I was 12, basically. It’s a part of who I am. If I have a big serve, big forehand, I also have this issue.
“I also have a resilient mind and always work hard to come back ... I like to compete. I like to put myself in situations where most people would struggle ... I’m a little bit psycho.
“I like to compete. I like to have fun with it. I like to win as many matches as possible. It’s been five years since I played Paris. It feels good to be here talking about a win.”
World No. 105 Berrettini, who plays Arthur Rinderknech in the second round of Roland Garros, is already looking forward to Wimbledon starting next month, though he may need a wild card to play at the All England Club.
“My agent is here. I don’t know if he’s going to ask for a wild card, but I don’t think they’re going to give me one,” the Italian said.
“We’ll see. If I get in, I get in. Otherwise, I’ll play the qualifiers. I know the level that I have. I know that I’ve been in worse situations in terms of rankings. Of course, Wimbledon is one of my favourite tournaments.
“Last year I was seeded in Wimbledon and I couldn’t really compete the way I wanted to. So it’s more important the way I’m competing than what I’m competing for.”
Published on May 26, 2026