Google News Matteo Berrettini reacts to avoiding shock loss to Denis Kudla at Queen's Club
by DZEVAD MESIC | VIEW 2516
Defending Queen's champion Matteo Berrettini was made to work hard against 82nd-ranked Denis Kudla but he was glad that he was able to avoid a shock loss. Second-seeded Berrettini entered the match as the big favorite but it far from an easy job for the Italian as he needed three sets to beat Kudla 3-6 7-6 (5) 6-4.
After losing the first set, Berrettini had two set points on Kudla's serve in the 12th game of the second set but failed to realize. In the second set tie-break, Berrettini missed out on two more set points, before realizing his fifth set point to send the match into a decider.
After winning the second set, Berrettini blew an early third set break, but he broke Kudla again in the ninth game for a 5-4 lead, before serving out for the match in the following game. “It was a really tough match,” Berrettini said, per the ATP website.
“We know each other really well. I am glad I am through. I think he played a really good match and most of the time I think he deserved to win, but I was there and worked hard and I am just really happy”.
Berrettini grateful for the support
Last year, Berrettini enjoyed an impressive debut at the Queen's Club as he beat home favorite Cameron Norrie to win the title.
This year, Berrettini is making a strong progress as he has been through to the quarterfinal. Berrettini is not a local player at the Queen's Club but he is receiving a strong support and he is grateful for those who are showing him support during his matches.
I have felt a lot of support since the first match last year,” Berrettini added. “That is why I love to come here. The Club is great but the crowd is unbelievable, they helped me a lot today, so thank you”.
Next up for Berrettini will be American tennis player Tommy Paul, who defeated Stan Wawrinka in straight sets.