Berrettini becomes 1st Italian man to make US Open semifinals since 1977
Matteo Berrettini bent, but didn't break.
The Italian survived a grueling five-set battle with Gael Monfils on Wednesday, earning a 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (5) win at Arthur Ashe Stadium to reach the US Open semifinals. The thrilling encounter lasted nearly four hours.
The victory makes Berrettini just the second Italian man to secure a spot in the final four at Flushing Meadows; Corrado Barazzutti accomplished the feat in 1977.
Berrettini was unable to capitalize on four match points in the captivating fifth set, but finally managed to put Monfils away in a tiebreaker. The Frenchman racked up five double-faults in the decisive set to aid Berrettini's cause.
The Rome native, ranked No. 25 in the world, will now meet either Rafael Nadal or Diego Schwartzman in the semifinals.
HEADLINES
- Ruud advances to Barcelona semis after beating Arnaldi in straight sets
- Murray back on practice court after avoiding major ankle injury
- Tennis umpire banned for life for manipulating scores and gambling
- Ruud beats Thompson to reach Barcelona Open quarterfinals
- Italy starting Davis Cup title defense against Brazil; U.S. plays Chile