Injured former top-10 star Matteo Berrettini pulled out of the Australian Open on Sunday on the eve of a blockbuster first-round clash with Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas.

TRENDING | Frances Tiafoe parts ways with coach Wayne Ferreira

The Italian, a 2022 semi-finalist, withdrew with a foot problem, tournament organisers said.

“Wishing @MattBerrettini a speedy recovery after being forced to withdraw from Melbourne with a right foot injury,” the ATP Tour said on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

ALSO READ | Australian Open draw: Novak Djokovic faces early Andy Murray clash

Seventh-seed Tsitsipas, who was beaten in last year’s final by Novak Djokovic, will instead face Belgian lucky loser Zizou Bergs.

Matteo Berrettini has not competed since last year’s US Open, where he retired from his second-round match due to an ankle injury.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

BOOKMARK | For the latest helpful, insightful and expert news, visit The South African website

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *