Social Media Unfollows And A Basel Press Conference
Italian tennis players Lorenzo Musetti and Matteo Berrettini stopped following each other on social media weeks ago, culminating in an awkward exchange in Basel. Once friends from the national team and former top-ten players, the pair’s relationship drew public scrutiny on Monday after Berrettini secured a victory and faced questions regarding Musetti’s recent title run at the Lyon Open.
“Is this a live broadcast?” Berrettini asked before offering a measured response about his compatriot. “I know that he worked hard to return, so he deserves it,” Berrettini said before cutting off the post-match interaction.
Unverified Relationship Rumors And Social Media Denials
Bellini dismissed the rumors via social media. “I can stand all the bullshit you say and write, but hearing that I allegedly cheated on Matteo? That’s too much. Better rinse your mouths before you let something out,” Bellini wrote.
I guess we can’t ignore Musetti/Berrettini/ex girlfriends rumors anymore… pic.twitter.com/00wUflWPVI
Musetti has not publicly commented on the speculation. The tension between the two players gained further attention following the selection for the upcoming Davis Cup Finals squad.
Davis Cup Roster Selection And Historical Precedents
The Italian captain selected Flavio Cobolli, Luciano Darderi, doubles specialists Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori, and Musetti for the upcoming Davis Cup Finals, leaving Berrettini off the roster. Tennis coach Brad Gilbert told Tennis Channel that friction between national teammates is not unprecedented in professional tennis. Gilbert referenced the 1981 Davis Cup final between the United States and Argentina, noting that José Luis Clerc and Guillermo Vilas sat on opposite sides of the court during changeovers and refused to speak to each other. Gilbert also mentioned past disputes among Czech players without naming specific individuals.
Vienna Tournament Schedule
Berrettini continues his schedule this week at the tournament in Vienna, where he is scheduled to play Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals on Friday.
