MATCH REPORT | 2023 ATP Finals: Jannik SINNER takes down Novak DJOKOVIC for first time in his career, ends 19 match winning streak

ATP
Wednesday, 15 November 2023 at 00:22
sinneratpfinals1 copyright proshots 23141257
Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-6(2) to secure his spot in the ATP Finals semifinals. The Italian tennis player had previously overcome world No. 6 Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP Finals opening round with a score of 6-4, 6-4, and entered the Djokovic match with a challenging 0-3 head-to-head record against the 24-times Grand Slam champion, seeking his first victory.
In the first set, both players held their service games, and although Djokovic missed the only break point in his favor, Sinner capitalized on his second opportunity in the 11th game to take a 6-5 lead and eventually claim the set 7-5. Djokovic won 73% of the points with his serve, while Sinner achieved 74%, emphasizing the importance of details in the set.
Throughout the set, Djokovic displayed a slightly more aggressive approach, playing close to the lines to challenge the Italian's defense. 'Nole' recorded 13 winners and 6 unforced errors, while Sinner showcased efficiency with 9 winners and only 1 unforced error.
In the second set, neither player gave an inch to their opponent, and no break points were played, leading to a tie-break. Both players demonstrated great effectiveness in their receiving games, with 7 out of 12 points resulting in mini-breaks. Djokovic eventually took the lead, winning the tie-break 7-6(5) to level the match.
Sinner maintained a strong presence from the baseline in the third set, improving the distribution of his shots and avoiding Djokovic's challenging net approaches. Sinner secured a crucial break in the sixth game, giving him a 4-2 lead and the opportunity to serve for the victory. However, Djokovic responded promptly, breaking back in a crucial moment. The match remained tight and was decided in the tie-break.
Sinner seized the first two mini-breaks, establishing a 5-0 lead, and held firm to prevent Djokovic from making a comeback in the tie-break. The match concluded with Jannik Sinner's triumph, securing a 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-6(2) victory.
In the final round-robin match, Sinner will face Holger Rune, while Djokovic will take on Hubert Hurkacz, who replaced the injured Tsitsipas. Djokovic will be under pressure to secure a win to advance to the semifinals.

Just In

Popular News