"One of the worst years of my career & life" - Matteo Berrettini looks back at tumultuous 2023 season following Shanghai Masters 1R win

Matteo Berrettini, who made a winning return at the Shanghai Masters, has had to overcome a series of injuries in recent times. He had to put an early end to his season last year and is continuing his comeback trail.

It is in this backdrop that his opening round win over Chris O’Connell holds more significance. He came through in two tight sets 7-6(9), 7-6(6).

Speaking to the media during his post-match press conference, Berrettini reflected on his win as well as the tough period leading up to it. He described the 2023 season as one of the worst of his career and life at large.

Not being able to do his job, something that he loves, he said, made things difficult for him. He added that the period taught him to enjoy every moment on the tennis court as they come.

"Yeah, it's been, I mean, last year was really, really tough, one of the worse years of my career and my life as well," Matteo Berrettini said. "Because obviously that's what we do."

"When you're not able to do your job and what you like to do, then it's always a struggle. So I'm really appreciating every moment that I have to spend on court and to perform and give my best," he added.

Berrettini, who has managed to his get himself back in the top-50 of the world rankings expressed satisfaction with his progress this season, saying he is hopeful of a positive end to the year.

"I know it's a process," the Italian said. "I know, you know, like I did a great job this year to build up again my ranking, and I'm feeling good, so hopefully a great end of the season as well."

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"Obviously I had good memories from five years ago" - Matteo Berrettini

Matteo Berrettini made the Shanghai Masters semifinal in 2019. (Source: Getty)

Matteo Berrettini has had success at the Shanghai Masters in the past, making it all the way to the semifinals at the tournament’s last edition in 2019.

Channelling those memories, the Italian said he was happy to be back winning before expressing hope of getting better with each passing match.

"Yeah, great, great. It's been five years, actually, time is flying," Matteo Berrettini said. "Obviously I had good memories from five years ago, a great tournament, and got even better."

"Yeah, happy to be back, happy for the win, and hopefully another great match ahead," he said.

Berrettini will take on 12th seed Holger Rune in a highly anticipated second round encounter at the Shanghai Masters. The Dane received a bye in the opening round.