Better now than 2022

Author: Richard Pagliaro @Nowtennis | Monday, January 13, 2025
Photo credit: Graham Denholm/Getty

Matteo Berrettini He showed great muscle memory on his return in Melbourne.

Berrettini hit 32 aces to defeat the Australian Open 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 Cameron Norrie at Kia Arena.

It's not classic Berrettini – it's better than that, Berrettini said.

The 2022 AO semifinalist said he is technically better now than he was three years ago, but admitted he was more confident then.

“I think at that moment I felt very confident, but if you look at some of the highlights and stuff. I don't think I played any better in terms of hitting the ball,” Berrettini said. “Maybe I play better because I'm more focused. I prefer to play certain types of games, but I feel like my level is there.

“Today I thought I played a really good game. I thought my backhand was better than it was three years ago. My returns were better than three years ago. Fortunately, we still have room to improve, with the best players in the world. It's just a matter of time, games and opportunity for the best players to play against each other.

The 28-year-old Berrettini will play as the 13th seed Holger Ruhn Fight for a spot in the third round.

Rune defeated the Chinese team Zhang Zhizhen.

“Yes, the next one is Holger. We played against each other a few times last year and I saw the last few points of the game,” Berrettini said. “Obviously he's a great player. We've never been to a Grand Slam. So it's completely different, but at the same time I know it's going to be a tough match. But I feel good. I feel confident. . I thought I had a very good game today and am ready for the next one.