Equilibrium restored – Sinner defeats Rublev in thrilling Cincinnati Open encounter

Jannik Sinner took revenge on Andrey Rublev in a tough match at the Cincinnati Open. The World No. 1 once again struggled against the Russian but overcame a shaky first set to secure the victory 4-6, 7-5, 6-4.

The Italian notched his 70th win at a Masters 1000 tournament, though this is the first time he's advanced this far in Cincinnati. He faces a daunting challenge in the semifinals against the winner of the Ben Shelton vs. Alexander Zverev match.

The first set began with clear dominance from Rublev (No. 7), who was sharp with his serve, while Sinner (No. 1) struggled with the wind, which affected his service early on. The Russian secured an early break and quickly went up 3-0.

Despite not being at his best, the Italian managed to hold his serve for a few games. Rublev had the chance to serve out the set at 5-3, but the World No. 1 responded by breaking back. However, it was in vain, as his service faltered, and he ultimately handed the set to his rival 6-4 after a double fault on set point.

The second set began with both players trading breaks, maintaining a 1-1 tie after four consecutive breaks, including the previous set. Midway through the set, Sinner slowed down the pace, becoming less aggressive but more consistent, which allowed him to stay in the rallies and limit unforced errors.

Sinner improved his return game, earning several break points. Rublev appeared visibly frustrated towards the end of the set, facing break points in four consecutive service games, but managed to hold on, usually relying on his first serve. After relentless pressure, the 2024 Australian Open champion secured the break in the 11th game and then served decisively to close out the set 7-5, forcing a decider.

Sinner carried his momentum into the third set, quickly taking the lead with two breaks, going up 3-0. Rublev managed to claw back one break, but he couldn't sustain his level against the World No. 1.

The Italian secured a third consecutive break in the set and served out the match, although it seemed all set, Rublev returned one of the breaks, again with Sinner conceding a double fault on the final point. However, the 23-year-old player eventually pulled out the match in his next service game and closed out the match 4-6, 7-5, 6-4. Next up, Sinner will face the winner of the Alexander Zverev (No. 4) vs. Ben Shelton (No. 13) match, which will be played next on Centre Court.