Berrettini Reveals Family Threats, Demands Safeguards

Matteo Berrettini has made an urgent plea for stronger player safeguards after revealing his family received violent threats from bettors. The Italian star advanced to the second round of the 2026 US Open on Monday, defeating Stan Wawrinka 7-6(4), 7-6(3), 6-0, but the victory was overshadowed by his call to action.

What threats did Berrettini's family face?

After his first-round win, Berrettini shared a traumatic experience from earlier this year. Following his quarterfinal retirement at the French Open against Matteo Arnaldi due to a hip injury, his brother received threatening messages. Bettors sent texts saying things like, 'We'll kill your family.' Berrettini wants tennis authorities to create a stronger committee to protect players from such intimidation. 'I just think we have to protect the players and do everything we can to create a safe environment for everyone,' he said, as reported by Ubitennis. He isn't completely against betting but believes it must be managed in a controlled way that doesn't degenerate the game.

How did Berrettini perform in his US Open opener?

Berrettini started his 2026 US Open campaign with a commanding straight-sets victory over three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka. The match on Monday, September 1, ended Wawrinka's final Grand Slam appearance. Berrettini won two tight tiebreaks before sealing the third set 6-0. The win highlights his powerful grass-court style, built around a 1.96m frame and an explosive forehand, translating well to the hard courts of Flushing Meadows.

What is the state of Berrettini's career?

Now 30, Matteo Berrettini has experienced significant highs and challenging lows. His career peak was reaching the Wimbledon final in 2021, where he became the first Italian man to do so before losing to Novak Djokovic. He has climbed as high as world No. 6. His career has been interrupted by injuries, including the hip issue that forced him out of the French Open this year. This US Open run represents another step in his ongoing comeback, aiming to reclaim a spot among the sport's elite.

Did Berrettini share a lighter moment with Wawrinka?

Despite the serious post-match discussion, Berrettini also paid a warm tribute to his defeated opponent, Stan Wawrinka. He recounted a funny bet they had involving wine, showcasing the camaraderie between competitors. This moment of levity contrasted sharply with the heavier topics addressed in his press conference, illustrating the complex emotions surrounding a major tournament.

• Berrettini defeated Stan Wawrinka 7-6(4), 7-6(3), 6-0 in the first round of the 2026 US Open on September 1.
• His family received death threats from bettors after his injury retirement at the 2026 French Open.
• He called for a stronger player protection committee to safeguard athletes from betting-related intimidation.
• Berrettini reached the Wimbledon final in 2021, a historic first for an Italian man.