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Berrettini and Popyrin Clash in Vienna Opener

Vienna, Austria – A compelling first-round match is set for the 2025 Vienna Open as former Masters 1000 champion Alexei Popyrin faces off against former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini. The matchup promises intrigue despite both players entering the tournament with uneven form.

Popyrin, the Australian standout, has struggled to find consistency in 2025, with a losing record and frequent early exits from tournaments. While he managed quarterfinal appearances in Monte Carlo and Toronto, he has also bowed out before the third round in 13 other events.

Berrettini’s season has been hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 30 matches. His highlight of the year was a quarterfinal showing at the Miami Open. The Italian has also struggled to find form since.

The head-to-head record favors Berrettini 2-1. However, Popyrin won their most recent encounter at the 2024 Paris Masters. While Popyrin boasts two hard-court titles, including a Masters 1000 victory in Canada last year, Berrettini has found most of his success on clay and grass.

Analysts predict Berrettini may have a slight advantage due to his powerful serve being well-suited to the indoor hard courts. He previously defeated Popyrin at the Vienna Open in 2021. However, he will need to improve his return game and tiebreak performance to ensure victory. Popyrin’s key to success will be maintaining a high percentage of service points won, exceeding his season average.

Tennis fans can watch the match live on Tennis Channel, TSN, and Sky Sports.

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