Matteo Berrettini Sends Support to Injured Sinner, Eyes Ambitious 2026 Finish

Matteo Berrettini has offered a heartfelt message of support to his injured compatriot Jannik Sinner while refocusing on his own ambitious goals for the remainder of the 2026 season. The Italian veteran, speaking after his first round at the Shanghai Masters, addressed the void left by the world number one's absence and his own determination to push forward.

Berrettini was quick to reach out to Sinner after learning the 24 year old had shut down his dominant 2026 season due to injury. Speaking in Shanghai, Berrettini revealed the text he sent, drawing from his own extensive history with physical setbacks. "I know what it's like to be injured," Berrettini said. "I would never ask him what he has, or how long it's going to take, because I know how tough it is mentally."

His message was one of patience and solidarity. "I texted him that I was waiting for him, that everybody was waiting for him," Berrettini shared. He acknowledged the significant loss for the sport, stating plainly, "Unfortunately this year, we lost the best player in the world." The news came after Sinner had captured his first Wimbledon title and swept every Masters 1000 event in the first half of the year, a run that ultimately took its toll.

Despite the early exit in Shanghai, Berrettini's sights are set on finishing the year strongly. He arrived at the tournament with important hopes for a positive result to boost his ranking and confidence. His draw proved difficult, pitting him against the in-form Brandon Nakashima in the second round. The American, seeded 16th, defeated Berrettini in straight sets, 7-6, 7-5, in a hard fought match where the Italian couldn't force a decider.

This setback hasn't dimmed his ambition. The 30 year old known as 'The Hammer' is targeting specific results in the final tournaments of the season to build momentum. He remains positive about his own path forward, even as he sympathizes with Sinner's situation. Berrettini's focus is now on translating his powerful game into consistent wins during the indoor swing and beyond.

Jannik Sinner's withdrawal creates a major shift at the top of men's tennis. His near unbeatable form through 2026 had defined the season, and his absence opens opportunities for other contenders. While some players might privately welcome the removal of such a dominant threat, Berrettini's public reaction highlights the respect and camaraderie that exists among competitors, especially those who share a nationality and the common experience of injury rehabilitation.

The ATP Tour must now adjust to a landscape without its clear frontrunner for the remainder of the year. This development could reshape the chase for ranking points and season ending titles, offering a chance for others to step into the spotlight.

Key Takeaways

• Matteo Berrettini sent a supportive text to Jannik Sinner, urging patience during his injury recovery.
• Sinner ended his 2026 season early after winning Wimbledon and all available Masters 1000 titles.
• Berrettini lost in the second round of the Shanghai Masters to Brandon Nakashima (7-6, 7-5).
• The Italian is pursuing an ambitious personal goal to finish the 2026 season on a high note.