The Italian tennis star is dominating headlines for two wildly different reasons. First, he’s currently tearing through the Rio Open, reaching the quarterfinals in a gritty comeback that has fans screaming “he’s back!” Second, and more alarmingly, a candid interview has surfaced where he dropped a bombshell about his future, hinting that his time on the professional circuit might be shorter than anyone expected.
Deep Dive: The Comeback and The Confession
The Rio Redemption
After missing the Australian Open 2026 due to injury, Berrettini has silenced critics with a stunning run on South American clay. On February 19, 2026, he fought back from a set down to defeat Dušan Lajović (3-6, 6-4, 6-2) in the Round of 16. He is now set to face the Peruvian underdog Ignacio Buse in the quarterfinals. For a player currently ranked No. 57, this isn’t just a tournament; it’s a fight for survival in the ATP elite.
The Shocking Interview
While his racket is doing the talking in Rio, his words in a recent interview with Marie Claire Argentina have gone viral. The 29-year-old admitted, “I don’t know yet if I’ll continue on the circuit.” He spoke openly about the mental toll of the sport, stating his desire for a “normal life” away from the pressure of tournaments. He even revealed his plans to eventually pivot to teaching or mentoring new generations, sparking fears that 2026 could be his swan song.
Life Off the Court
Amidst the career uncertainty, Berrettini’s personal life remains a hot topic. Following his high-profile split from Melissa Satta, he is now dating model and influencer Federica Lelli. The couple has kept a relatively low profile, with Berrettini emphasizing the importance of detaching from tennis—a mindset he supports with his unexpected passion for anime and deep house music.
The Impact
Matteo Berrettini is at a crossroads. His run in Rio proves he still has the weapons—the booming serve and forehand—to compete at the highest level. Yet, his candid admission about retirement reveals a man searching for happiness beyond the baseline. Every match he plays this season now carries extra weight: are we watching the resurrection of a champion, or the start of a farewell tour?
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