Before things get really serious on Monday with the start of the main competition, the 28-year-old Roman took time for a short walk through Vienna's Stadtpark. Unfortunately, he was unable to take a photo in front of the golden Strauss monument because the work of art is currently covered up. Instead, the next opportunity was waiting just a few meters away: the legendary Kursalon Hübner, where dance events were held from the mid-19th century and the first concert by Johann Strauss (son) took place in 1868.

Picture: e|motion/Bildagentur Zolles KG/Sascha Feuster

“I love playing here, I like the conditions and the audience is fantastic,” explained Berrettini on his last visit to Vienna. Back then, some of the players also visited the Plachutta restaurant, where they were taught how to make schnitzel properly. Berrettini: “I still have the Schnitzelschlögel - or what do you call it, definitely a kind of hammer for flattening the meat - in my apartment in Monte Carlo. Just like the chef's hat and apron. I still have all of that! Unfortunately, my coaches don't allow me to cook schnitzel at home because it's too unhealthy.” With a grin, Berrettini adds: “So I'll just eat one here this week.”

Matteo Berrettini 2021 cooking Schnitzel. Picture: e|motion/Bildagentur Zolles KG/