Cincinnati
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner showcased immense resilience to defeat 2021 champion Alexander Zverev in a thrilling match at the Cincinnati Open, securing his spot in the final against American favorite Frances Tiafoe. Sinner, battling a nagging hip injury, overcame both physical discomfort and a rain delay to edge past Zverev with a 7-6(9), 5-7, 7-6(4) victory in a marathon three-hour, seven-minute contest.
Despite limping at times and clearly favoring his injured side, Sinner managed to outlast Zverev with a stunning display of shot-making, particularly in the decisive third-set tie-break. Reflecting on the match, Sinner said, ‘Sometimes you have to rely on instinct, and today, that was my strength. It was a match with ups and downs, especially when you’re out there for over three hours. But I’m proud of how I handled it.’
Zverev, who seemed in control for much of the match, especially after taking the second set and with Sinner struggling physically, was unable to close it out. The German had opportunities to serve out the first set but faltered, allowing Sinner to stay in the contest. After a rain delay, Sinner saved two set points to clinch the opener and eventually won the match in a late-night showdown.
This victory is significant for Sinner, as it narrows his head-to-head deficit with Zverev to 2-4 and marks his first time advancing beyond the Round of 16 in Cincinnati. He now stands one win away from claiming his fifth title of the season.
