Matteo Berrettini Makes Triumphant Return with Hard-Fought Victory at Argentina Open

Matteo Berrettini made a successful return to competitive tennis on Tuesday, defeating Argentina's Federico Coria 7-5, 7-5 in the first round of the IEB+ Argentina Open in Buenos Aires. The victory marked Berrettini's first match since withdrawing from the Australian Open with an abdominal injury, and the Italian showed both rust and resilience in the 2 hour, 14 minute battle.

The former Wimbledon finalist struggled with efficiency early in the match, squandering seven break point opportunities in the opening set before finally converting on his eighth chance to claim the crucial break. That conversion proved decisive, as Berrettini held serve the rest of the way to take the first set 7-5. The Italian's trademark powerful serve was on full display throughout, helping him control key moments despite not being at his absolute sharpest.

Coria, the home favorite playing on his preferred clay surface, refused to go away quietly in the second set. The 31-year-old Argentine created opportunities of his own and had the Buenos Aires crowd firmly behind him. However, Berrettini's experience and power proved too much in the crucial moments, as he again managed a late break to secure the second set by the same 7-5 scoreline.

After the match, Berrettini spoke about the challenges of returning from injury and the work required to get back on court. "I trained really hard to be able to come here," the Italian said, acknowledging both the physical and mental preparation needed for his comeback. His relief at getting through a competitive match was evident, particularly after the disappointment of having to withdraw from Melbourne.

With the victory, Berrettini advances to face Czech player Vit Kopriva in the second round. The Argentina Open, played on outdoor clay courts, represents an important opportunity for Berrettini to build match fitness and confidence as he looks to return to the form that once saw him ranked as high as world number six. For now, the focus will be on staying healthy and continuing to shake off the rust that comes with time away from competition.