Jannik Sinner, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, made a triumphant start to his 2024 Nitto ATP Finals campaign, defeating Alex de Minaur in straight sets (6-3, 6-4) in Turin, Italy.
Sinner, who narrowly missed out on the title in 2023, has been in scintillating form this season, winning the Cincinnati Open, US Open, Six Kings exhibition, and Rolex Shanghai Masters. His victory over De Minaur, who was making his ATP Finals debut, puts him in a strong position to qualify for the semifinals.
The Italian’s dominance was evident from the outset, as he recovered from an early break deficit to win five of the next six games and take the opening set. The second set was briefly interrupted by a medical emergency in the crowd, but Sinner remained unfazed, breaking De Minaur in the crucial game and sealing the match with an ace.
Sinner’s victory extends his unbeaten streak against De Minaur to seven matches. The Australian, who became the first Australian man to reach the ATP Finals in 20 years, has never managed to overcome the Italian’s formidable game.
Sinner’s triumph in Turin is a testament to his exceptional form and unwavering determination. Having already secured the ATP Year-End No. 1 ranking, he is now eyeing his first ATP Finals title. His next match will be crucial in determining his chances of reaching the semifinals.
