Matteo Berrettini Withdraws From 2026 US Open: Injury Setback Derails Italian’s Flushing Meadows Campaign

The international tennis community received a significant blow today, August 16, 2026, as Matteo Berrettini officially announced his withdrawal from the upcoming US Open. Citing a recurring lower-body injury sustained during the hard-court lead-up events, the former semi-finalist will vacate his spot in the main draw just days before the final Grand Slam of the year begins. This development reshapes the men’s singles bracket and leaves fans questioning when the "Hammer" will return to full physical dominance on the ATP Tour.

Persistent Physical Hurdles and the Hard-Court Toll

The narrative of Matteo Berrettini’s career in 2026 has been one of immense promise frequently interrupted by the physical demands of the professional circuit. After a strong showing in the early grass-court season, Berrettini entered the North American hard-court swing with high expectations. However, the abrasive nature of the hard courts has once again aggravated a lingering foot issue that first surfaced during the Masters 1000 events earlier this month.

Berrettini’s withdrawal is particularly poignant given his historical success at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Having reached the semi-finals in 2019 and the quarter-finals on multiple occasions, his game—built around a thunderous serve and a devastating forehand—is perfectly suited for the fast conditions in New York. His absence removes one of the most dangerous unseeded or mid-seeded threats in the draw, providing a sigh of relief for top-ranked contenders who might have faced him in the early rounds.

The medical team for the 30-year-old Italian indicated that the decision was made to prevent long-term damage. In a brief statement released via social media, Berrettini expressed his "deep sadness" at missing the event, noting that "the US Open holds a special place in my heart, but I must listen to my body to ensure I can compete at 100% in the future." This marks the third time in four years that injuries have significantly impacted his Grand Slam availability.

Bracket Adjustments and Broadcast Coverage Information

With Berrettini officially out, the US Open tournament organizers will adjust the entry list accordingly. His spot will likely be filled by the highest-ranked player on the alternate list or a lucky loser from the qualifying rounds, which are set to conclude shortly. This shift often creates a "wildcard" dynamic in the draw, as a player who previously had no expectations of main-draw play suddenly finds themselves on the big stage.

For fans and bettors looking to navigate the updated field, the 2026 US Open remains one of the most accessible sporting events globally. Coverage begins on August 24, 2026, with several platforms providing comprehensive access:

• United States: ESPN and ESPN+ will hold exclusive domestic rights, offering multi-court streaming.
• United Kingdom & Ireland: Sky Sports Tennis continues its dedicated 24/7 coverage of the ATP and WTA tours.
• Europe: Eurosport and Discovery+ will provide extensive regional broadcasting.
• Australia: Stan Sport and Nine Network remain the primary destinations for southern hemisphere viewers.

The loss of Berrettini is a blow to broadcasters who rely on his high-octane playing style to drive viewership in the European market. However, the depth of the 2026 field, featuring a mix of established legends and "New Gen" superstars, ensures that ticket demand for the night sessions at Arthur Ashe Stadium remains at an all-time high.

Recovery Roadmap and the Late 2026 ATP Calendar

Looking ahead, the focus for Matteo Berrettini shifts immediately to rehabilitation and the final stretch of the 2026 season. Historically, Berrettini has utilized the indoor hard-court season in Europe to regain his footing and accumulate ranking points. If his recovery stays on schedule, his team is targeting a return during the Asian swing in late September or the Rolex Paris Masters in October.

The stakes for a swift recovery are high, as the Italian national team looks toward the 2026 Davis Cup Finals. Berrettini has been a cornerstone of Italy’s recent tennis renaissance, and his presence is considered vital for their title aspirations. His current ranking, which has hovered within the Top 30 throughout the year, may see a slight dip following the loss of points from the previous year’s US Open, but a strong showing in the autumn could see him finish the year inside the elite circle.

Tennis analysts suggest that Berrettini may need to reconsider his tournament scheduling for the 2027 season to preserve his longevity. By prioritizing recovery now, he aims to avoid the "stop-start" cycle that has plagued his last few campaigns. For now, the US Open moves forward without one of its most charismatic figures, as the tennis world waits for the "Hammer" to strike again.