An early blockbuster is set to take place in round two of the US Open as Matteo Berrettini looks to upset America’s number one Taylor Fritz.
A typically exciting start to the US Open has already seen former world number four Holger Rune fall in straight sets to Brandon Nakashima.
Nakashima has been no stranger to a few upsets of late having beaten Taylor Fritz in a controversial match in Cincinnati.
Fritz managed to overcome a few first round nerves to win a close first set 7-5 against Argentina’s Camilo Ugo before taking the next two 6-1, 6-2.
The American’s run since his bronze medal at the Olympics has been dodgy, with early exits in both US Open warm-up events.
With former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini in round two, the Italian is approaching his clash with America’s number one with quite some venom.
Matteo Berrettini is ready to beat Taylor Fritz at the US Open
The Italian has not always had things his own way against Fritz having never managed to beat the American.
Both huge servers, the US Open will be the first time the pair have met at grand slam level.
Ahead of their match, Berrettini responded without hesitation to some on-court questions about his preparedness.
“You ask me if I feel ready? I feel ready,” he said. Every time we played was tough match and of course, he loves to play here, his tournament in a way—here and Indian Wells. Hell of [a lot of] support, really strong player.
“It’s going to be a tough match, but that’s why I’m training. Why I’m working really hard this season to come back at this level.”
Last time the two met was in the United Cup final, where Fritz won two close tie-breaks to secure glory for the USA.
Can Matteo Berrettini finally beat Taylor Fritz?
Defeat at Indian Wells as well as in the Davis Cup have seen Berrettini only manage to win one set against the American.
Berrettini certainly has reason to feel confident. After missing September of last year through February of this year with a ruptured ligament suffered at the US Open, the former number six has won 22 of his last 28.
More importantly too he has reached four finals in his last eight tournaments.
An opening day win over Albert Ramos-Vinolas was his first hard-court victory of 2024 and with a renewed fire, the Italian is going in with little pressure.
With five American men in the top 20 for the first time since 1997, Fritz is leading the line and has further pressure on to reach the latter stages.
This one has every sign it will go the distance and if Berrettini can find his A-game, I fancy the Italian to secure his first win over Fritz.
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