CAGLIARI/STARNBERG, April 30, 2026
Matteo Berrettini produced a standout performance at the Sardegna Open in Cagliari, defeating top seed Mariano Navone 7–5, 6–3 to book his place in the quarterfinals. Whether it was the Italian setting, the proximity to the sea, or the electric atmosphere at the Tennis Club Cagliari, the former world No. 6 looked back to his best, combining power and consistency in a commanding display.
After showing fighting spirit in his opening match, Berrettini raised his level significantly, overpowering an in-form Navone, who had recently claimed his first ATP Tour title in Bucharest and pushed Alexander Zverev in Madrid. This time, however, the Argentine had no answers to Berrettini’s aggressive game. The Italian served more effectively, reduced errors on his backhand, and dictated rallies with his trademark forehand, drawing energy from a passionate home crowd.
Berrettini sealed the first set on his second set point and took control of the second with a decisive break at 3–2. Despite missing an initial match point, he closed out the victory confidently in the following game.
EPIC performance 🤩@MattBerrettini downs No. 1 seed Navone 7-5, 6-3 to advance to the Cagliari quarter-finals #ATPChallenger | @federtennis pic.twitter.com/PeD0nUZwuO
— ATP Challenger (@ATPChallenger) April 30, 2026
“It’s an important win for me because I played at a very high level,” he said afterward. “I stayed focused, even when I didn’t take my chances early. I felt incredible support from the crowd.”
Next, Berrettini faces Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz in a blockbuster quarterfinal clash. The matchup brings back memories of their Wimbledon semifinal encounter five years ago, won by the Italian.
It was a strong day overall for Italian players. Matteo Arnaldi advanced with a convincing 6–2, 6–3 win over sixth seed Juan Manuel Cerundolo, showing both intensity and control. Gianluca Cadenasso also impressed, defeating Mattia Bellucci 7–5, 6–1 to continue his rapid rise in the rankings.
Elsewhere, Nuno Borges edged past Cristian Garin in a tight three-set battle, while Jesper De Jong eliminated second seed Adrian Mannarino, exposing the Frenchman’s ongoing struggles on clay.
THURSDAY RESULTS
Singles – Second Round
Nuno Borges (POR) def. Cristian Garin (CHI) 6–4, 3–6, 7–6
Jesper De Jong (NED) def. Adrian Mannarino (FRA) 6–3, 3–6, 6–1
Matteo Arnaldi (ITA) def. Juan Manuel Cerundolo (ARG) 6–2, 6–3
Matteo Berrettini (ITA) def. Mariano Navone (ARG) 7–5, 6–3
Gianluca Cadenasso (ITA) def. Mattia Bellucci (ITA) 7–5, 6–1
Hubert Hurkacz (POL) def. Emilio Nava (USA) 6–4, 6–1
Roman Andres Burruchaga (ARG) def. Andrea Pellegrino (ITA) 6-4 4-6 7-5
Aleksandar Kovacevic (USA) def. Marcos Giron (USA) 2-6 6-3 6-4
Doubles – First Round
Gille/Verbeek (BEL/NED) def. Romboli/Smith (BRA/AUS) 6–4, 6–4
Kittay/Seggerman (USA/USA) def. Barrientos/Behar (COL/URU) 6–3, 6–3
Reynolds/Watt (NZL/NZL) def. Cina/Travaglia (ITA/ITA) 3–6, 6–1, 10–7
Frantzen/Haase (GER/NED) def. Cadenasso/Carboni (ITA/ITA) 6–3, 6–4
