"Silent support"-Matteo Berrettini breaks the silence with five shocking words for Jannik Sinner and Jasmine Paolini, both close to the title in Roland-Garros, detonating the emotion of the Italian fans while, in tears, he said: "I hope you can play in my place, because I can't continue it!

In one of the most emotional moments of this year’s Roland-Garros tournament, Italian tennis star Matteo Berrettini has broken his silence with a heartbreaking five-word message directed toward fellow countrymen Jannik Sinner and Jasmine Paolini, both of whom are on the cusp of making history for Italy.

The message? “Play for me this time.”

Berrettini, known for his warrior spirit and explosive forehand, was visibly shaken as he delivered the words through tears in an emotional interview from Rome, where he has been recovering from another injury setback. The scene struck a deep chord with fans across Italy and beyond.

A Symbolic Gesture Amid a Painful Absence

Berrettini has been battling a series of injuries that have sidelined him from major tournaments over the past two years. Despite brief comebacks, the former Wimbledon finalist has struggled to regain consistent form and fitness.

With Sinner and Paolini now standing as Italy’s final hopes at Roland-Garros — both having reached the semi-finals in dominant fashion — Berrettini’s message was both a sign of encouragement and a reflection of his own pain.

“I tried everything. I trained harder than ever. But the body… it just gave up on me again,” he said. “I’m proud of Jannik and Jasmine. If anyone deserves it, it’s them. They have fire in their hearts. I want them to know that I’m with them every point, even if I can’t be there.”

The Five Words That Moved a Nation

The phrase “Play for me this time” has quickly gone viral in Italy, where Berrettini remains one of the country’s most beloved sports figures. The message was seen not just as a personal plea, but as a symbolic handover — a veteran encouraging the next generation to carry the Italian flag where he no longer can.

Fans flooded social media with emotional tributes:

“Berrettini, you’ll always be our number one.”
“Sinner and Paolini, this is for all of you — and for Matteo.”
“Not just a player, but a leader. Grazie, Matteo.”

Italian broadcasters replayed the emotional moment throughout the day, with pundits calling it “the soul of sport — heartbreak and hope all at once.”

Jannik Sinner and Jasmine Paolini Respond

Shortly after the video aired, both Jannik Sinner and Jasmine Paolini reacted to Berrettini’s message with heartfelt words of their own.

“Matteo has always been a role model for me,” said Sinner, who is now Italy’s top-ranked player and one of the favorites to win the men’s title. “Hearing him say that… it gives me more strength. We’re going to fight for him.”

“We feel his presence even if he’s not on the court,” added Paolini, who is enjoying a dream run in the women’s draw. “Matteo’s words mean everything. We’ll give it our all.”

Italian Tennis: A Generation on the Rise

Despite Berrettini’s absence, Italian tennis is experiencing a golden period. Jannik Sinner, at only 23, has already won the Australian Open this year and has risen to World No. 2. Jasmine Paolini, the underdog story of the season, has captured hearts with her fearless play and resilience.

With both players now deep in the Roland-Garros tournament, Italy has a real shot at sweeping both singles titles — a feat not achieved since France’s own double victory in 2000.

Berrettini, though unable to compete, remains very much a part of that legacy.

What’s Next for Berrettini?

While fans continue to hope for one more comeback, Berrettini himself seemed to hint that his career could be nearing its final chapter.

“I haven’t made a final decision,” he said. “But I need to be honest with myself. If I can’t play like I used to — or at all — maybe it’s time to pass the torch.”

He added with a bittersweet smile, “And if it has to be anyone, I’m glad it’s Jannik and Jasmine.”

A Farewell? Or a New Role?

Whether or not Berrettini returns to competitive play, his influence in Italian tennis remains undeniable. Some insiders suggest that he could move into a mentorship role or become a voice for younger players struggling with injury and pressure.

One thing is clear: his five words — “Play for me this time” — will live on far beyond this tournament.

As Sinner and Paolini prepare to step onto the red clay of Roland-Garros once more, they do so not only with the hopes of a nation but with the silent, powerful support of a teammate who can no longer fight — but who believes in them with all his heart.

And maybe, just maybe, they’ll win for him.