In a stunning upset at the 2025 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, second-ranked Alexander Zverev fell to Italy's Matteo Berrettini in the second round, concluding the match with a score of 6-2, 3-6, 5-7. The match, which lasted 2 hours and 28 minutes, marked a significant moment in both players' careers as Berrettini not only advanced to the third round but also improved his head-to-head record against Zverev to 4-3.
Playing under the intense sun on the clay courts of Monte-Carlo, Zverev, the tournament's top seed, struggled to maintain his form against the determined Berrettini. Despite starting strong, winning the first set 6-2, Zverev's performance dipped in the subsequent sets. Berrettini's resilience shone through as he took the second set 6-3 and clinched the match with a hard-fought 7-5 in the final set.
Throughout the match, Zverev recorded six aces but also committed six double faults, a statistic that proved costly. He managed to convert three of five break points, showcasing his aggressive playstyle. On the other hand, Berrettini served three aces and remarkably did not commit any double faults, converting three out of seven break points during the match. This efficiency was crucial in turning the tide in his favor.
Berrettini, who is currently ranked 34th in the ATP rankings, celebrated this victory as it marked the 11th time in 38 matches that a player from the Top-10 has fallen to him. "I’m really happy with how I managed to stay focused and turn the match around," Berrettini said post-match. "Zverev is a tough opponent, and to beat him is a big deal for me." This win not only highlights Berrettini's skill but also indicates his potential to make a deeper run in the tournament.
Looking ahead, Berrettini's next challenge will come against the winner of the match between Czech player Jiri Lehechka and Italian Lorenzo Musetti, who is seeded 13th. This upcoming matchup promises to be another exciting contest as Berrettini seeks to capitalize on his momentum.
The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, a prestigious event on the ATP calendar, boasts a prize pool exceeding 6.1 million euros, attracting the world's best players. Defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas will be keenly watching the tournament unfold as players vie for the coveted title.
As the tournament progresses, tennis fans are eagerly anticipating how Berrettini will perform against his next opponent. With Zverev's unexpected exit, the path to the title is now more open, and players like Berrettini will look to seize this opportunity.
This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tennis, where even the highest-ranked players can face challenges from lower-ranked opponents. With the clay season in full swing, all eyes will be on the upcoming matches as players aim to secure their spots in the later rounds of this elite tournament.
