ATP Finals London Preview: Novak Djokovic vs. Matteo Berrettini

Ranked No. 52 in January, Matteo Berrettini wasted no time climbing to the top of the men’s game.  Berrettini, now No. 8 in the world, qualified for the Nitto ATP Finals thanks to Denis Shapovalov’s thrilling upset over Gael Monfils in Paris. Had Monfils won, Berrettini would have found himself waiting around the player lounge as the first alternate.

The 6’5'' Italian is officially part of the big leagues now, and while he has some “just happy to be here” vibes, anyone who has seen his devastating serve and forehand combination knows he presents immediate danger to the competition. He has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

It’s always tricky facing someone for the first time, as is the case when Berrettini meets five-time ATP Finals champion Novak Djokovic on Sunday. There’s always the inevitable feeling out process, the reading and reacting, anything to get the first beat on your opponent.

Getty Images

Berrettini’s game translates on all surfaces: his rare combination of racquet-head speed and consistency has frustrated opponents all year long. But how will Berrettini react when he watches Djokovic redirect his 90 m.p.h. inside-out forehand down the line for a clean winner? According to the oddsmakers, not very well, as Djokovic is a gargantuan favorite.

Iron Mike Tyson said it best, “everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Berrettini has the weapons to beat anyone, but asking him to defeat Djokovic on his first try is too tall an order. Don’t write off the Italian completely, but wish him the best of luck—he will need it. Winner: Djokovic