In a thrilling showdown at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, Matteo Berrettini delivered a stunning performance, defeating World No. 2 Alexander Zverev 2-6, 6-3, 7-5 on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. This victory marks a significant milestone for Berrettini, as it represents his first triumph over a top-two player and only the 11th top-10 win of his career.
Competing on the iconic Court Rainier III in front of an enthusiastic crowd, Berrettini showcased resilience and skill, particularly in the final set where he exhibited an aggressive mindset that proved crucial. After dropping the first set, Berrettini bounced back strongly, winning 14 of 15 first-serve points in the second set, a statistic that underscored his dominance on serve during that period.
"The game plan was the same but I changed my attitude and the way I was believing in my strokes," Berrettini reflected after the match. "I wasn't hitting my forehand and serve like I had in previous days, and I had to adapt and adjust to the conditions. Sascha was playing unbelievable, so it was not easy. Then I told myself to be more aggressive, and if I am going to lose this match, I am going to do the right things, and luckily it worked."
As the match progressed, Berrettini found himself serving for the match at 5-4 in the third set. However, he was broken after making a series of unforced errors. Undeterred, he quickly regained his focus, breaking Zverev in the next game. The pivotal moment came during a grueling 48-shot rally at 5-5, 40/40, where Berrettini transitioned from defense to offense, hitting a forehand winner that electrified the crowd.
After securing the break, Berrettini maintained his composure and sealed the match on his second attempt, triumphing after two hours and 27 minutes. The victory sent shockwaves through the tournament, as Zverev, the top seed and a formidable opponent, was eliminated early in the competition.
Berrettini's win is particularly noteworthy given his recent form on clay, having won 17 of his last 18 matches on the surface. Last season, he claimed ATP Tour clay-court titles in Marrakech, Gstaad, and Kitzbuhel, demonstrating his prowess on this challenging surface. Reflecting on his affinity for clay, Berrettini stated, "I grew up on clay, playing on it until 19. On Tour, we don't play on it as much, but at the same time, I have missed the biggest tournament on clay for the past three years, and that was tough. Now I want to enjoy it. I feel really comfortable on clay."
Looking ahead, Berrettini is set to face either Jiri Lehecka or fellow Italian Lorenzo Musetti in the third round. Musetti previously defeated a top-two opponent on clay, adding an intriguing layer to Berrettini's upcoming match.
Meanwhile, Zverev's defeat is a blow to his aspirations of reclaiming the top spot in the ATP rankings, as he has struggled since the end of the Australian Open, where he finished as runner-up to Jannik Sinner. The German's loss in Monte Carlo means he has now won just six matches since that tournament, raising questions about his form as the clay-court season unfolds.
In other matches on the same day, Italian Flavio Cobolli continued his impressive run by defeating Dusan Lajovic 6-4, 6-2, following his recent title win in Bucharest. Cobolli will face Arthur Fils in the second round after Fils overcame Tallon Griekspoor in a closely contested match that ended 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-2.
Additionally, Tomas Martin Etcheverry advanced past Corentin Moutet 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, and Roberto Bautista Agut defeated Brandon Nakashima 6-2, 6-4. Tomas Machac also progressed, defeating Sebastian Baez 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, setting up a clash with eighth seed Alex de Minaur.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Berrettini as he aims to build on this significant win. His performance against Zverev not only showcases his potential but also raises expectations for his upcoming matches in the prestigious Monte-Carlo Masters. The last Italian to win this tournament was Fabio Fognini in 2019, and Berrettini's current form suggests he could be a strong contender for the title.
With the clay-court season in full swing, the excitement is palpable, and fans are eager to see how the rest of the tournament unfolds. Will Berrettini continue his impressive run, or will another player rise to the occasion? One thing is certain: the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters has already delivered unforgettable moments, and there's much more to come.
