ATP Finals: Jannik Sinner delivers a masterclass against Casper Ruud, one step closer from the crown
ATP
Another
commanding victory for Jannik Sinner, who dismantled Casper Ruud 6-1, 6-2. The
World No. 1 continues his dominant run, matching his 2023 result by reaching
the final. In the championship match, he will face Taylor Fritz, who defeated
Alexander Zverev.
The Italian
star remains untouchable. Playing at an almost invincible level, it took him
just over an hour to secure the three breaks that led to his triumph. Despite
Ruud’s resilience and the adjustments he tried throughout the match, they were
not enough to trouble Sinner.
Opening dominance for Sinner
The 2-time Grand Slam champion set
the tone from the start, dominating with his serve and breaking Ruud in his
first service game, winning 12 of the first 15 points in just 11 minutes. With
a 3-0 lead, the match quickly became an uphill battle for Ruud.
In the
fifth game, Ruud had an opportunity to claw back with two break points. The
World No. 7 created good chances by exposing Sinner at the net, but he couldn’t
capitalise on either. These were the only brief lapses from the Italian, as
Ruud showed grit and personality despite the pressure.
Ruud’s
momentum was short-lived. Sinner survived a tough service game, broke Ruud
again on his second chance, and sealed the set 6-1 with an impressive 79% of
points won on his first serve, compared to Ruud’s meagre 33%.
Read also
Sinner dismantles in the second set Ruud
Ruud
started stronger, improving his first-serve points won. However, Sinner’s shots
increasingly overpowered him, and fatigue began to show at 2-2. Ruud received a
time violation as he struggled to recover, just before Sinner broke him again
to secure a commanding position. From there, Sinner maintained control to close
out the match.
It was clear that, with everything against him, Ruud succumbed to the pressure of a growing Italian crowd and a Sinner who didn't drop his level. The Italian secured two consecutive breaks, and on his first match point, he sealed a comfortable victory 6-1, 6-2 against a resilient opponent who was completely overwhelmed in all aspects of the game.
In the final, he will face Taylor Fritz once again, whom he already defeated in the Round Robin. The American surprised Alexander Zverev in a closely contested match that was decided by details in the third-set tie-break (6-3, 3-6, 7-6). Sinner defeated Fritz just a few days ago in the second match of the Ilie Nastase Group, practically giving no chances to the American as he claimed the victory 6-4, 6-4.
📢🇮🇹 OLE OLE OLE OLE SINNER SINNER!
— ATP Tour (@atptour) November 16, 2024
Italy's favourite son @janniksin delivers the goods by reaching the showpiece final on home soil, defeating Ruud 6-1 6-2!#NittoATPFinals pic.twitter.com/UCrc4X7KRg
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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