Davis Cup final: Matteo Berrettini helps Italy edge Belgium in semi-finals

Sinner has been a key member of Italy’s victory in the past two tournaments and has chosen to maximize his recovery during the short six-week break after winning last week’s ATP Finals.

Only one of the top 10 men’s players will participate in this year’s event, sparking discussion about the future format of the event.

But after Berrettini and Coboli impressed for Italy in the quarter-final against Austria, both players spoke of their honor to represent their country in the final.

Berrettini maintained the momentum of winning the first set in straight sets, breaking serve early and not being caught up after leading 3-0.

The former Wimbledon runner-up, ranked 56th in the world, immediately broke serve in the second set after Collignon double-faulted.

However, when Collignon took his first chance to level the score at 2-2, his sprint was slowed – and two games later, Berrettini hit another break point with a brilliant cross-court forehand, denying the Belgian his fourth straight game.

But Berrettini reestablished himself after another break and did not lose control of the match, making it ten consecutive singles wins while playing for his country.

After the game, Berrettini said: “The pressure is a privilege. Obviously I feel the pressure, but you play in front of your home country, my whole family is here and we are all good friends in the team.”

“It’s a special feeling for me. I brush off the bad feelings and just enjoy the moment.”