Matteo-Berrettini-sportstiger

Picture Credit: Wimbledon

Wimbledon 2021 finalist Matteo Berrettini has withdrawn from the Championship after testing positive for COVID-19. He joins 2017 Wimbledon finalist Marin Cilic who was forced to pull out of the tournament after being infected with the virus. 

Matteo Berrettini released a statement on his Instagram that said, “I am heartbroken to announce that I need to withdraw from @wimbledon due to a positive COVID-19 test result. I have had flu symptoms and been isolating the last few days.”

“Despite symptoms not being severe, I decided it was important to take another test this morning to protect the health and safety of my fellow competitors and everyone else involved in the tournament. I have no words to describe the extreme disappointed I feel. The dream is over for this year, but I will be back stronger. Thank you for the support.”

Matteo Berrettini's spot in the draw will be taken by Elias Ymer who is set to face Daniel Altmire. Ymer defeated Italian Riccardo Bonadio 6-3, 6-4. 

“It’s been much more solid. Every week I’m making points, I’m at least making quarters. It’s not first rounds like it’s been in the past. I don’t know if it’s about maturing or what. Maybe sometimes things click. I can see it myself, I’m more stable this year.”

Ymer then talked about the Williams sister, who has been his and his brother’s inspiration. He said, “Me and my brother always said it, I think our father drew all of his inspiration from the Williams sisters because he saw two sisters and he wanted two brothers on the Tour. It was his first thought.”