Why did Matteo Berrettini withdraw from the Australian Open?

Matteo Berrettini withdrew from the Australian Open due to illness.

Who will Alex de Minaur play in the first round of the Australian Open?

Alex de Minaur will now play Mackenzie McDonald in the first round of the Australian Open.

Has Matteo Berrettini had injury problems before?

Yes, Berrettini has a history of injuries, having missed seven Grand Slams in four years.

Home / Sports / Berrettini Withdraws: De Minaur Gets Lucky Break

Berrettini Withdraws: De Minaur Gets Lucky Break

17 Jan

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Summary

Matteo Berrettini withdrew from the Australian Open due to illness.
Mackenzie McDonald replaces Berrettini as Alex de Minaur's opponent.
Berrettini has missed seven Grand Slams in four years due to injuries.

Berrettini Withdraws: De Minaur Gets Lucky Break

Matteo Berrettini has been forced to withdraw from the Australian Open due to illness, significantly impacting his first-round opponent Alex de Minaur's draw. The former world No. 6 Italian player retired early from a promotional match at Melbourne Park, leading to his withdrawal from the year's first Grand Slam. This unfortunate turn of events provides a considerable boost to de Minaur, who will now face lucky loser Mackenzie McDonald.

Berrettini's health issues continue to plague his career, with this latest withdrawal adding to a history of fitness troubles. Following an injury-ravaged 2025 season, he missed key tournaments, including the French and US Opens, due to an oblique injury. Despite these setbacks, he played a role in Italy's Davis Cup victory in November, demonstrating his resilience.

For de Minaur, the draw has shifted favorably. He had previously trailed Berrettini 3-2 in their head-to-head matches. Now, he faces McDonald, whom he has defeated in both of their previous encounters. De Minaur enters his home Grand Slam with his highest-ever seeding, with potential future opponents including Mariano Navone or Hamad Medjedovic.