Berrettini takes Italy to brink of Davis Cup defence

Matteo Berrettini produced a superb display to give Davis Cup holders Italy a 1-0 lead on the Netherlands in Sunday’s final, defeating Botic van de Zandschulp 6-4, 6-2. The world number 35 edged the first set but hit his peak in the second and left the Dutchman no chance in Malaga, winning in 76 minutes. […]

Matteo Berrettini produced a superb display to give Davis Cup holders Italy a 1-0 lead on the Netherlands in Sunday’s final, defeating Botic van de Zandschulp 6-4, 6-2.

The world number 35 edged the first set but hit his peak in the second and left the Dutchman no chance in Malaga, winning in 76 minutes.

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Berrettini, who came to support Italy as they ended a 47-year wait for the trophy in 2023 as he missed out with an ankle injury, has been crucial in their Davis Cup defence.

The 28-year-old paired up with Sinner to help Italy triumph in a doubles decider against Argentina in the last eight, before winning his semifinal singles rubber against Thanasi Kokkinakis.