The tennis world has recently been rocked by surprising statements from Matteo Berrettini, which have sparked public debate and shed new light on the dynamics between top players. During a training session in preparation for the Indian Wells Masters, Berrettini unexpectedly mentioned Jannik Sinner, while also taking subtle jabs at Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.
Berrettini’s comments came at a delicate time for Sinner, who has recently been embroiled in controversy over an alleged positive test for Clostebol, an anabolic agent found in some wound healing ointments and banned by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA). Although he was cleared, the case has sparked controversy and called into question relationships between players on the circuit.
In this context, Berrettini publicly expressed his support for Sinner, stating: “It’s impressive how he’s handled everything: I think it’s been a difficult few months for him.” This statement underlines the respect and friendship between the two Italian tennis players, highlighting their solidarity in a difficult moment for Sinner.
On the other hand, Alcaraz and Djokovic’s reactions to the Sinner affair were more cautious and less supportive. Alcaraz said: “I think there are aspects of the whole affair that we don’t know, but if they let Jannik play there must be a reason.” Djokovic, on the other hand, stressed the need for fair and clear protocols, saying: “Cases like Sinner’s are the reason why we founded the PTPA, which always advocates for fair protocols, clear protocols for standardized approaches to these types of cases.” These positions led Sinner to reflect on his relationships on the tour, saying: “I learned who is my friend and who is not, I saw it straight away.”
Berrettini’s statements did not stop at supporting Sinner. During the same interview, he emphasized how both he and other Italian tennis players have already beaten Alcaraz in the past, stating: “I would like to remind you that in New York Jannik Sinner had match points against Carlos and has already beaten him, as I have already beaten him and also Musetti.” This observation can be interpreted as a subtle dig at Alcaraz, reminding that, despite his talent, he is not invincible.
Furthermore, during the SuperTennis Awards 2024, Berrettini and Sinner showed their complicity with a sketch that entertained the audience. When Sinner said that “it’s always a shame to beat a friend”, Berrettini jokingly replied: “What the fuck are you talking about!” This exchange highlighted the relationship of friendship and respect between the two, showing how competition can go hand in hand with mutual respect.
Berrettini’s recent statements have therefore unleashed a storm in public opinion, highlighting the complex and often hidden dynamics between the top players in world tennis. While the support for Sinner reinforces the image of unity among Italian tennis players, the digs at Alcaraz and Djokovic suggest subtle but present tensions on the circuit. With the Indian Wells Masters just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics will affect performances on the court and whether there will be further developments in this intricate web of relationships.
