Matteo Berrettini survives a buoyant Andy Murray to win his first title of the year at Stuttgart


Matteo Berrettini survives a buoyant Andy Murray to win his first title of the year at Stuttgart

Matteo Berrettini

Andy Murray had a fantastic campaign at the Stuttgart Open, but he was defeated by Matteo Berrettini, one of the top grasscourt players on the Tour, 4-6 7-5 3-6. Matteo Berrettini did not play for a few months, but when he returned to grass, he did not miss a beat.

ADVERTISEMENT

This week, he appeared as relaxed as ever as he swaggered his way to the final, where he proved to be the superior performer against Murray. Both Berrettini and Murray played excellent tennis, but it was the Italian who had the edge when it mattered the most.

Also Read: A resilient Tim van Rijthoven thwarts Daniil Medvedev in straight sets to win his maiden ATP title at the Libema Open 2022

Andy Murray puts up a strong fight against Matteo Berrettini

Matteo Berrettini
Matteo Berrettini

Both players struggled with their serve early in the first set, but Berrettini was able to capitalise on his opportunities to break Murray. The Brit failed to do so, and once they got into a good groove, it was game over for the Brit. The Italian Stallion strolled to a 6-4 victory in the first set. Andy Murray struggled even more in the second set, as he was put under a lot of strain by Matteo in several service games.

ADVERTISEMENT

He was able to do it, and at 6-5 in the second set, he eventually got a terrible game from Matteo to take the match 7-5. He was thrilled and certain that he could win the match, but a cold shower came early in the second set as Matteo Berrettini seized an early 2-0 lead, prompting Murray to request an MTO. Murray’s hip area was the focus of the physio’s attention, which was an unsettling sight.

Murray again halted play at 2-4 in the final set for another MTO, this time with the physio examining the hip/groin area. It’s not a very good look for Murray after such a strong play this week. In the end, Berrettini finished off the comeback in style 6-3 in the final set.

Also Read: “You expect things to happen against him” Andy Murray thinks Nick Kyrgios attracts miscreants and hecklers by his outbursts

Also Read: “I got completely screwed” Matteo Berrettini calls out ATP for Wimbledon’s point stripping decision, calls it ‘unfair’ for all players

ADVERTISEMENT