Matteo Berrettini, last year's runner-up at Wimbledon, dropped out of the grass-court Grand Slam tournament hours before he was scheduled to play his first-round match Tuesday, saying that he tested positive for COVID-19.
The All England Club announced Berrettini's withdrawal, and he posted about it on Instagram, saying that he was “heartbroken” and has been isolating “the last few days” after experiencing flu-like symptoms.
“We have maintained enhanced cleaning and hand sanitizing operations, and offer full medical support for anyone feeling unwell. We are following U.K. guidance around assessment and isolation of any potential infectious disease,” the statement said. “Our player medical team also continue to wear face masks for any consultation.”
“I have no words to describe the extreme disappointment I feel,” he said. “The dream is over for this year, but I will be back stronger.” Berrettini was considered a title contender for Wimbledon, both because of last year's run to his first Grand Slam final at the All England Club before losing to Djokovic - and because of his recent form on grass.