Matteo Berrettini opens up on injury mindset at Wimbledon 2026

Matteo Berrettini told reporters at Wimbledon on 27 June 2026 that he has completely changed how he handles injuries, emphasizing rest and balance as he prepares for his third-round match against Grigor Dimitrov.

What did Berrettini say about his fitness?

In the press conference, the Italian star explained that earlier in his career he was obsessed with staying healthy, constantly worrying about every niggle. "I used to think I had to push through everything," he said. Now he focuses on listening to his body, allowing recovery when needed, and returning stronger. He described this shift as essential for a sustainable career on the ATP Tour.

How does this affect his Wimbledon run?

Berrettini entered Wimbledon 2026 as a seeded player and advanced to the third round, where he will meet Grigor Dimitrov on 30 June. The new mindset, he believes, helped him navigate the early rounds without over-exertion. He noted that his serve felt fresher and his movement on grass more fluid after taking a short rest following a minor shoulder strain in May.

What personal drama surrounds him?

Just weeks before Wimbledon, Berrettini’s former girlfriend Vanessa Bellini posted an emotional Instagram message on 20 June, hinting at personal struggles after their split in late June. The breakup sparked rumors that the tennis player might be dating South Korean DJ Peggy Gou, especially after fans spotted him liking her posts. Bellini’s post, featuring a tearful selfie, added fuel to the speculation.

Why does this matter for his career?

The combination of a refreshed injury philosophy and off-court turbulence creates a unique pressure cooker for Berrettini. Managing mental stress while adapting his training could dictate his performance at the upcoming Grand Slam. If he can keep his focus, the new approach may extend his time at the top of the rankings, where he currently sits inside the top 15.

What’s next for the Italian star?

After Wimbledon, Berrettini is slated to compete in the Hamburg Open in early July, where he will test his revamped routine against clay specialists. He also hinted that he will work with a new physiotherapy team to fine-tune his recovery protocols. The next few weeks will reveal whether his candid talk at Wimbledon translates into deeper runs at the season’s remaining majors.