Matteo Berrettini withdraws from Wimbledon 2022 after testing COVID-19 positive
Italian Tennis player, Matteo Berrettini, one of the favourites for the men’s singles, has withdrawn from Wimbledon after testing positive for Covid-19.
The 26-year-old, seeded eighth, was beaten by Novak Djokovic in last year’s final and recently won the Queen’s title.
He posted: “I am heartbroken to announce that I need to withdraw from Wimbledon due to a positive COVID-19 test result. I have had flu symptoms and have been isolating the last few days.
“Despite symptoms not being severe, I decided it was important to take another test this morning to protect the health and safety of my fellow competitors and everyone else involved in the tournament.
“I have no words to describe the extreme disappointment I feel. The dream is over for this year, but I will be back stronger. Thank you for the support.”
The 26-year-old was set to face Cristian Garin in the first round but has now been replaced in the draw by Elias Ymer. Berrettini was among the favourites to win Wimbledon this year, alongside the likes of Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.
He has been in excellent form ahead of Wimbledon, having made a successful return from a hand injury. The Italian defeated Andy Murray to win the Stuttgart Open earlier this month and then retained his title at Queen’s.
News of Berrettini’s withdrawal comes just one day after Marin Cilic was also forced to pull out of Wimbledon after testing positive for Covid. The 33-year-old was set to face Mackenzie McDonald in the first round but has been replaced by Nuno Borges.
Ciliic confirmed the news on social media, writing: “Hey guys, I am sad to share that I tested positive for COVID. I have been self-isolating and was hopeful I would be ready but unfortunately, I am still feeling unwell & unable to compete at my best.
“I am heartbroken to be missing Wimbledon & to see my grass season end this way. [I am] Looking forward to competing next year!”
