Matteo Arnaldi retired after just 40 minutes in the all-Italian derby against Lorenzo Musetti in the first round of the ATP 500 in Washington. At 6-0 3-1, the world number 33 pointed to his foot, reigniting concerns about a problem that has troubled him since 2025.
There is still no official diagnosis, but the feeling is of an issue that has never truly been resolved, merely kept at bay. Arnaldi appeared flat from the start, lacking movement and unable to mount any resistance.
The problem dates back to the 2025 Australian Open, during another match against Musetti. At Queen's, a left ankle issue led to overcompensation on his right foot. Clay, being less traumatic on his joints, provided relief and enabled a remarkable run to the Roland Garros semi-finals, which was then cut short by a severe intestinal virus.