In an unexpected turn of events at the Madrid Open, British tennis star Jack Draper advanced to the next round after Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire mid-match. The match, which had been eagerly anticipated, saw Draper showcasing impressive form in the opening set. However, Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, was visibly struggling and appeared in discomfort as the match progressed.
It was a heartbreaking moment for the Italian, who had to walk off the court with the scoreline standing at 6-3 in favor of Draper. Fans in attendance at the Caja Mágica were left stunned, as Berrettini, known for his powerful serve and aggressive play, had been unable to continue due to what appeared to be a physical injury. The nature of the injury was not immediately clear, but Berrettini has a history of physical issues, including previous struggles with his back and abdomen.
For Draper, the win came under unfortunate circumstances, but it nonetheless marked a crucial step in his career. The 21-year-old, who has shown flashes of brilliance in recent months, now looks forward to his next challenge in the tournament. As for Berrettini, his sudden withdrawal raises questions about his fitness and whether he will be able to compete at his highest level moving forward.