Sinner, a key member of the Italian team that has triumphed in the past two editions, opted to maximize his recovery during the sport’s short six-week off-season after winning the ATP Finals last week.
The presence of just one of the top 10 men’s players at this year’s event has sparked debate over the future format of the tournament.
But after Berrettini and Cobolli played for Italy in their quarter-final against Austria, both players spoke of the privilege they feel competing for their country in the final.
Berrettini kept the momentum from his maiden win in the first set as he grabbed an early break of service and couldn’t be caught after racing to a 3-0 lead.
The former Wimbledon number two, ranked 56th in the world, then broke immediately in set two after Collignon double-faulted twice.
However, his charge to the finish was delayed when Collignon took his first chance to make it 2-2 – and the Belgian was denied a fourth straight match when Berrettini landed a sensational cross-court forehand to seal another break point two games later.
But Berrettini would not lose his grip on the match after reasserting himself with another break and serving out for his 10th consecutive singles win playing for his country.
Berrettini said after the match: “Pressure is a privilege. Obviously I feel the pressure, but you are playing for your own country, my whole family is here, we are all good friends in our team.
“It’s such a special feeling for me. I take away the bad feelings and just enjoy the moment.”
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