PHOENIX/STARNBERG, March 16, 2024
Matteo Berrettini staged a remarkable comeback on Friday to extend his impressive return at the Arizona Tennis Classic in Phoenix.
Making his tournament comeback at the ATP Challenger Tour 175 event after a six-month injury hiatus, the 27-year-old Italian wild card entry rallied past No. 8 seed Arthur Cazaux of France 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.
The intense second-round encounter, which commenced on Thursday, was interrupted by rain after Cazaux clinched the opening set. After nearly 26 hours since the match’s inception, Berrettini showcased his resilience, securing his second win of the 2024 season and earning a coveted spot in the quarterfinals of the hard-court event. The 2019 Arizona Tennis Classic champion and 2021 Wimbledon finalist was 5-4 down in the third set with Cazaux serving for the match. Berrettini, however managed to come back and secured victory in two hours and 38 minutes.
2 days. 5 rain delays. 1 win. 🔨
2019 champion Matteo Berrettini digs out from a break down in the final set to defeat Cazaux 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.#ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/94vp4unamL
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) March 16, 2024
“Unbelievable match. It took two days,” Berrettini said with a laugh, quoted by the ATP Challenger website. “Really happy to win this match. I’m really glad that I’m here, playing and enjoying my time on court. Let’s try and do one more.” The World No. 154 will next take on French qualifier Terence Atmane.
Borges books spot in semis
Meanwhile defending champion Nuno Borges of Portugal booked his spot in the semi-finals following 7-6(1), 6-1 win over Thanasi Kokkinakis from Australia. Borges saved all nine break points he faced and capitalized on two of his own five break-point chances to prevail after one hour and 36 minutes.
Up next for the World No. 6o and fifth seed will be Luca van Assche of France.
