World number ones Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek showcased their resilience on Saturday, overcoming early setbacks to advance to the semi-finals of the ATP and WTA Cincinnati Open.
Sinner, who received a first-round bye and a walkover on Friday, faced a stern test against Andrey Rublev. The Italian lost the first set 4-6 but rallied to win the second 7-5 and the third 6-4. Sinner’s victory prevented Rublev from repeating his triumph over him in Montreal last week.
In the women’s draw, Swiatek faced a similar challenge against Mirra Andreeva. The Polish star dropped the first set 4-6 but fought back to win the second 6-3 and the third 7-5. Swiatek’s victory marked her 30th match win at the WTA 1000 level this season.
Sinner will now face Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals. Zverev, the 2021 Cincinnati champion, defeated Ben Shelton 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 7-5 in a rain-interrupted match. Zverev has won four of five matches against Sinner, including three at Grand Slams.
Swiatek will face Aryna Sabalenka in the other semi-final. Sabalenka, who has reached her fourth Cincinnati semi-final, defeated Liudmila Samsonova 6-3, 6-2. Sabalenka will take over the WTA second ranking spot from Coco Gauff heading into the US Open.
American Jessica Pegula also advanced to the semi-finals, defeating Leylah Fernandez 7-5, 6-7 (1-7), 7-6 (7/3). Pegula played two matches on Friday and admitted to feeling tired, but she managed to overcome the challenge of Fernandez.
The Cincinnati Open is a key tune-up event for the US Open, which begins on August 26. The tournament provides players with an opportunity to fine-tune their game and gain momentum heading into the final Grand Slam of the season.
