**Matteo Berrettini Beats Botic Van der Zandschulp in Straight Sets in Tokyo**
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Matteo Berrettini showcased his dominant form and undeniable power as he surged past Botic Van der Zandschulp in straight sets to secure a crucial victory in the first round of the 2024 Tokyo Open.
The Italian star, who has been working tirelessly to regain his peak performance levels after a series of setbacks and injuries, looked sharp and focused throughout the match.
He dispatched Van der Zandschulp 6-3, 6-4 in just over an hour and a half, putting on a display that served as a reminder of why he has been considered one of the most dangerous players on the ATP Tour when fully fit.
### **Berrettini’s Return to Form**
After a challenging period marked by injuries and inconsistent results, Berrettini’s victory over Van der Zandschulp comes as a much-needed boost to his confidence and morale.
The Italian, known for his powerful serve and heavy groundstrokes, has been searching for a breakthrough performance to re-establish himself among the sport’s elite. His performance in Tokyo suggests that he may have turned a corner, as he executed his game plan with precision and efficiency against a tricky opponent.
Berrettini’s serve was firing on all cylinders, as he regularly clocked speeds exceeding 135 mph and mixed in a variety of spins and placements to keep Van der Zandschulp off balance.
He won an impressive 85% of his first-serve points and faced only a single break point in the entire match, which he saved with a blistering ace down the T. Berrettini’s serving prowess set the tone for the encounter, allowing him to control the tempo and dictate the rallies from the baseline.
“I felt really good out there today,” Berrettini said in his post-match interview. “It’s been a tough few months, and I’ve had to dig deep to get back to a level where I feel like I can compete with the best. Today’s match was a step in the right direction, and I’m pleased with how I played.”
### **Strategic Masterclass from Berrettini**
Beyond his serve, Berrettini’s ground game was equally impressive, as he showcased a strategic approach that minimized his unforced errors and maximized his shot-making abilities.
The Italian employed a smart blend of power and finesse, using his potent forehand to push Van der Zandschulp behind the baseline and create openings to finish points with precision volleys and passing shots.
Throughout the match, Berrettini’s shot selection was spot-on. He frequently used his forehand to maneuver his opponent around the court, dictating play with deep, heavy topspin shots that pinned Van der Zandschulp in defensive positions.
When the Dutchman tried to alter the rhythm by playing slice backhands or venturing to the net, Berrettini responded with well-timed lobs and cross-court winners that kept him in control.
One of the standout aspects of Berrettini’s performance was his ability to maintain focus and composure during key moments.
After gaining an early break in the first set, he remained calm and didn’t allow Van der Zandschulp any opportunity to claw his way back.
Berrettini stayed solid from the baseline, waiting for the right moment to unleash his power, and this measured approach paid dividends as he wrapped up the first set 6-3 with minimal fuss.
### **Rising to the Challenge in the Second Set**
The second set followed a similar pattern, with both players holding serve comfortably through the early stages.
Van der Zandschulp, known for his resilience and all-court game, attempted to disrupt Berrettini’s rhythm by varying his pace and angles.
However, Berrettini’s consistent power and depth proved too much for the Dutchman to handle.
A crucial break came in the seventh game of the second set, when Berrettini produced a series of blistering returns that left Van der Zandschulp scrambling.
Having secured the break, Berrettini showed no signs of nerves as he closed out the match with a clinical display of serving and forehand dominance.
He sealed the victory with a love service game, finishing with an ace that perfectly encapsulated his authority on the day.
The win was a testament to Berrettini’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure, even against a player of Van der Zandschulp’s caliber.
### **Berrettini’s Path Forward in Tokyo**
This victory marks an important milestone for Berrettini as he looks to build momentum and make a deep run in Tokyo.
The Italian has had to contend with numerous obstacles over the past year, including a series of injuries that have hampered his progress and forced him to miss several key tournaments.
However, his performance against Van der Zandschulp suggests that he is regaining his confidence and finding his rhythm at a crucial juncture in the season.
“I’ve been working really hard on all aspects of my game,” Berrettini noted. “It’s been frustrating at times, but I feel like the hard work is starting to pay off. Matches like today give me belief that I’m on the right path.”
Looking ahead, Berrettini will be hoping to carry this form into the later rounds of the tournament, where he is expected to face tougher competition.
With his serve firing and his groundstrokes looking as dangerous as ever, Berrettini has the tools to trouble any opponent.
His success in Tokyo could serve as a launching pad for a strong finish to the season, as he aims to reassert himself as a contender in the ATP circuit.
### **Van der Zandschulp’s Struggles and Response**
For Van der Zandschulp, the loss is a setback, but there were positives to take from his performance.
The Dutchman struggled to deal with Berrettini’s relentless power and depth, but he showed flashes of his own quality, particularly in his backhand exchanges and net play.
Van der Zandschulp will need to regroup quickly as he prepares for his next event, where he’ll be looking to regain his form and put together a solid run.
“I knew it would be a tough match against Matteo,” Van der Zandschulp admitted. “He’s got one of the best serves on tour, and when he’s playing like that, it’s really hard to find a way through.
But I’ll keep working, keep pushing, and hopefully get some better results in the upcoming tournaments.”
### **Final Thoughts**
Berrettini’s victory over Van der Zandschulp in Tokyo is more than just a win—it’s a statement. After a difficult year, the Italian is showing signs that he’s ready to compete at the highest level once again.
With his serve and forehand clicking, Berrettini has the potential to make waves in the remainder of the Tokyo Open and beyond. As he continues to build momentum and regain his confidence, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if he can translate this performance into a sustained run of success.
