For many young tennis players, facing their childhood idol on the court is the pinnacle of achievement. For Matteo Berrettini, that dream became a reality at the 2019 Wimbledon Championships, when he stepped onto the hallowed grass to battle his idol, Roger Federer.

A Starstruck Encounter:

Berrettini, a self-proclaimed lifelong Federer admirer, recently reminisced about the match with the Italian daily Corriere Della Sera. His words revealed a unique blend of excitement and awe. “The first match against him,” he recalled, “I didn’t even understand where I was, I was so excited. And I was at Wimbledon.”

Federer’s Clinical Efficiency:

The excitement, however, couldn’t translate into victory for the young Italian. Federer, then on his way to securing his 99th Wimbledon win, delivered a dominant performance. The eight-time champion dispatched Berrettini with a resounding 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory in just over an hour.

Beyond the Scoreboard: A Lesson in Grace:

Despite the one-sided defeat, Berrettini’s recollection focused more on the experience itself than the result. He described the match against Federer as “wonderful,” a testament to the sheer thrill of sharing the court with his idol.

This positive outlook extended beyond just the thrill of the occasion. Berrettini went on to praise Federer’s character, highlighting the Swiss maestro’s “charisma of talent and kindness.” He acknowledged Federer’s greatness on the court, but also his graciousness as a person.

A Different Kind of Bond:

While Federer holds a special place in Berrettini’s heart as a tennis idol, he revealed a closer relationship with fellow Italian player Lorenzo Sonego. Their bond, Berrettini explained, transcended the competitive realm. He spoke fondly of Sonego’s support, mentioning an instance where Sonego offered words of consolation after a particularly tough loss. This camaraderie, both on and off the court, highlighted the importance of friendships forged within the competitive world of professional tennis.

Berrettini’s experience serves as a reminder that the journey of a tennis player is filled with moments that extend beyond wins and losses. The thrill of facing a legend, the respect earned through sportsmanship, and the camaraderie of fellow competitors all contribute to the tapestry of a tennis career.