Matteo Berrettini picks Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and more to build his perfect tennis player

Matteo Berrettini has faced some of the best in the sport, competing at the highest level and reaching a Wimbledon final. The former World No. 6 has also played a key role in Italy’s Davis Cup victory in 2024. While he is one of the most talented players, the Italian chose the best shots from Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to build his perfect player.

Ahead of the Qatar Open, speaking with La Gazzetta dello Sport and Red Bull, Berrettini was asked to construct his ideal tennis player. Starting with the serve, Berrettini chose Ivo Karlovic, known for his powerful delivery and second-most aces in ATP history, behind only John Isner.

Meanwhile, for the forehand, he picked Roger Federer, while Novak Djokovic’s backhand earned his vote. For the best return, he chose his compatriot and three-time Grand Slam champion, Jannik Sinner, who is currently out of competition as he serves a three-month ban due to his doping case.

When it came to the slice, he backed himself, opting for his own shot. Pete Sampras, one of the best net players in history, was his pick for volleys, while Carlos Alcaraz took the footwork category. For mentality and power, he selected Rafael Nadal.

Roger Federer’s forehand is considered one of the best ( Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Finally, Federer, who is widely regarded as one of the most elegant and stylish players, appeared again on the list for style. Lastly, Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was his choice for the best celebration.

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Berrettini spoke on his current form

Berrettini has been working his way back into rhythm after a long spell on the sidelines. Following his loss to Stefanos Tsitsipas at the Dubai Open, he spoke about his mindset and ambitions for the season.

The Italian is still recovering from injury plagued 2023 season,which he had to cut short after injuring his ankle during a second-round match at the U.S. Open. However, he has slowly climbed back in the rankings throughout 2024, winning three titles, even earning the ATP’s Comeback of the Year.

This year, despite early exits in Australia and Rotterdam, he managed to beat Djokovic for the first time in Doha. However, he then lost to eventual finalist Jack Draper.

Matteo Berrettini helped Italy won the 2024 Davis Cup (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images for ITF)

The Italian, however, feels good about his state of form. “I feel ready to achieve important things and play very aggressively. I know my tennis can adapt to any surface, and I have learned to accept myself, forgive myself for my bad moments, and enjoy the good ones,” he told reporters ahead of the ATP event in Dubai.

Reflecting on his time away from the game, he added, “I now appreciate much more everything that being a professional tennis player entails after the injuries I have suffered. I believe I can have a great season.”