Matteo Berrettini Issues Urgent Plea Over Threats After US

Matteo Berrettini has made an urgent plea for increased security at the US Open after receiving violent threats against his family. The Italian star's call for action came after he defeated Stan Wawrinka in the first round on Monday, a match that marked the end of the three-time Grand Slam champion's career at the majors.

What threats did Matteo Berrettini report?

Following his opening victory, Berrettini revealed he had been targeted with serious threats. He described receiving messages that included direct threats to his family's safety. The 30-year-old player called for tournament organizers and authorities to take the situation seriously and provide better protection for athletes and their loved ones. This alarming development has cast a shadow over his participation in the tournament, shifting focus from his on-court performance to off-court security concerns.

How did Berrettini perform in his first-round match?

Berrettini delivered a commanding performance to advance at Flushing Meadows. He defeated the veteran Swiss star Stan Wawrinka in straight sets, with a scoreline of 7-6(4), 7-6(3), 6-0. The final set was particularly dominant, as Berrettini closed out the match without dropping a game. This victory was significant not only for Berrettini's tournament progression but also because it concluded Wawrinka's Grand Slam career, a fact that resonated throughout the tennis world. You can track the progress of all players in the tournament on our [standings](/standings) page.

Who is Matteo Berrettini and what is his career background?

Matteo Berrettini is a professional tennis player from Rome who turned pro in 2015. Known as 'The Hammer' for his powerful game, he stands at 1.96m and built his success around a massive serve and explosive forehand. His career reached its peak in 2021 when he became the first Italian man to reach the Wimbledon final, eventually losing to Novak Djokovic. He has climbed as high as world No. 6 in the ATP rankings. His career, however, has been interrupted by significant injury struggles that have tested his resilience on multiple occasions.

What are the key facts about Berrettini's current situation?

• Berrettini is competing at the 2026 US Open, where he won his first-round match on Monday.
• He received violent threats prompting a public plea for enhanced security measures.
• His victory over Stan Wawrinka ended the career of a three-time Grand Slam champion at the major level.
• The Italian's career has been defined by a Wimbledon final appearance and a battle with persistent injuries.

Berrettini's immediate focus must now be split between his second-round opponent and the concerning security situation. His powerful game makes him a threat on any surface, but particularly on grass where he has won 11 consecutive matches in the past. The coming days will reveal how he manages these dual pressures at one of tennis's most demanding events.