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“Always Helped Me”: Matteo Berrettini on Flavia Pennetta and Francesca Schiavone’s Influence on His Tennis
In the last two years, World No.9 Matteo Berrettini has become the undisputed frontier of Italian tennis on the Tour. With Lorenzo Sonego, young talents such as Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti, and veteran star Fabio Fognini also behind him, it is indeed a desirable time to be an Italian tennis fan. Moreover, these new generation players are rising swiftly, looking up to their country’s legends.
At the ongoing Wimbledon Championships 2021, Berrettini is the only Italian remaining in the draw. Notably, he has reached the quarterfinals in this tournament for the first time in his career.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 1, 2021 Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in action during his second round match against Netherlands’ Botic van de Zandschulp REUTERS/Toby Melville
Recently, Berrettini revealed how Italian WTA legends Flavia Pennetta, Francesca Schiavone, Roberta Vinci and Sara Errani inspired them. Even today, he turns for help to 2010 Roland-Garros champion Schiavone.
Berrettini reveals relationship with Pennetta and Schiavone
Foremost, the 25-year-old recalled watching the all-Italian legendary US Open final between Roberta and Flavia in 2015. Berrettini said, “It was such a great moment for all of us.”
Additionally, the Rome native added that in tennis, it does not matter whether it is a boy or a girl; one follows and cheers for them utterly.
Game, set, and match.
In 2015, @flavia_pennetta capped off her career with a run to the US Open title. pic.twitter.com/RUyGli6TFy
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) April 12, 2020
Furthermore, Berrettini mentioned how he met Pennetta and Schiavone and how they helped him. “I met Flavia a really long time ago when I used to practise in Rome. They always helped me because they were looking at me like the young one. Overall we have a great relationship, also with Francesca Schiavone. I saw her in Madrid, then in Rome. She’s still talking to my coach. We text a little bit. It’s really nice.”
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – July 3, 2021 Italy’s Matteo Berrettini celebrates winning his third round match against Slovenia’s Aljaz Bedene REUTERS/Paul Childs
Following that, the Queen’s champion also revealed how sessions with Pennetta filled him with self-belief. Conclusively, Berrettini stated that they set an example for all of them that “everything is possible.” He even highlighted that they were four of the same generation ranked in the top seven.
Read More: “Will Derail Me”: Novak Djokovic on Why He Doesn’t Pay Attention When Fans Call Him G.O.A.T
Who will Matteo Berrettini play next in Wimbledon Championships 2021?
Until now, Berrettini has lost only one set to reach his first quarterfinal in Wimbledon. He will next face another first-time Slam quarterfinalist Felix Auger-Aliassime. Since both of them have blistering forehands, it would be an exciting encounter to watch.
Who do you think will make it into the Wimbledon Championships 2021 semifinals?
Watch this story: Unknown Facts About Wimbledon Championships
The post “Always Helped Me”: Matteo Berrettini on Flavia Pennetta and Francesca Schiavone’s Influence on His Tennis appeared first on EssentiallySports.
