Italian tennis player Matteo Berrettini has made a remarkable comeback by defeating compatriot Lorenzo Sonego with a 6-3 7-6(5) victory in the quarterfinal of the Grand Prix Hassan II in Marrakesh. This win marks his first semifinal appearance on the Tour since October 2022 when he reached the semifinals in Naples.
The former world No.6 and Wimbledon finalist displayed exceptional skill and determination in the match, saving the only break point he faced and seizing the opportunity to break in the second game, ultimately securing the first set. With an aggressive display from 5-5 in the second-set tie-break, Berrettini emerged victorious after an intense one hour and 42 minutes, ending the match when Sonego double faulted on match point.
Currently ranked at No. 107, the 27-year-old player is aiming for his eighth tour-level title this week. His next opponent will be Argentina’s Mariano Navone, who advanced to the semifinals after defeating Australia’s Aleksander Vukic with a score of 6-4 6-2.
In another thrilling match, defending champion Roberto Carballes Baena from Spain triumphed over American qualifier Nicolas Moreno de Alboran with a score of 6-4 4-6 6-4, securing his spot in the semifinal. Carballes Baena has been in exceptional form, earning his 100th tour-level win in the previous match against Britain’s Dan Evans. He has now won his past eight matches at the clay-court ATP 250 event, reaching five tour-level semifinals. Next, he will face Pavel Kotov, the world No.68.
The competition at the Grand Prix Hassan II promises to be exhilarating as Berrettini, Carballes Baena, Navone, and Kotov battle it out in the upcoming semifinal matches. Fans are eager to witness the exceptional talent and sportsmanship displayed by these accomplished players.
As the tournament progresses, tennis enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the semifinal and final matches, hopeful for more breathtaking displays of athleticism, skill, and sportsmanship. Stay tuned for more updates as the Grand Prix Hassan II unfolds in Marrakesh.