Alex De Minaur reflects on 9th consecutive loss against Jannik Sinner: "It's like trying to solve a puzzle that not many people have succeeded in”

Alex de Minaur addressed his latest loss to Jannik Sinner, which led to Australia's elimination from the Davis Cup. The Oceanians, who lost the 2023 final to Italy, reached the semifinals again and faced the Europeans. In a series defined by Berrettini and Sinner, both won in straight sets.

After Kokkinakis's defeat to Berrettini, world No. 9 De Minaur took to the court against world No. 1 Sinner with the mission of keeping Australia alive, but the two-time Grand Slam champion once again showed impeccable form to send Italy to the final.

"Especially in crucial points, you have to step up" - Alex De Minaur

Sinner secured the win over De Minaur in straight sets and extended his head-to-head with De Minaur to 9-0, defeating him again just two weeks after their Round Robin match at the ATP Finals. The Italian has been a mountain De Minaur has yet to overcome, having won 18 of the 19 sets they’ve played.

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"It's never easy to play against the world number 1. He's playing with a lot of confidence. It was a tough match and I had opportunities,” De Minaur said in the press conference. “But yes, he hasn't won a million matches this year for no reason. There's a reason for that. It's been tough, there are things to improve, I hope next time I have a better chance."

"It's like trying to solve a puzzle that not many people have succeeded in. That's probably the best way to describe it. His ball speed and consistency make him maintain his focus throughout the match,” he added. “So, if you want to go out there and beat him, you have to play your best tennis. Especially in crucial points, you have to step up.”

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“He comes out, he’s solid, plays well, and in key moments, he takes that step forward. He’s a very tough player to face this year, just like other opponents have felt as well.”

Sinner's victory secured Italy's spot in the final, where they faced off on Sunday. Once again, Berrettini and Sinner took straight-set wins to secure back-to-back titles for Italy, who now has three Davis Cup titles in its history, including the 1976 title and the two won by Sinner in 2023 and 2024.