Jannik
Sinner secured revenge against
Novak Djokovic with a 6-2, 2-6, 7-5 victory,
extending the series between Italy and Serbia to the doubles at the
Davis Cup Finals.
This marked
the third encounter between the Italian young star and the 24-times Grand Slam
champion in just 11 days. Initially, they met in the round-robin stage of the
ATP Finals, with Sinner claiming victory (7-5, 6-7, 7-6). However, they faced
off again in the final, and that time Djokovic emerged victorious (6-3, 6-3),
securing the title in Turin.
The latest
clash occurred in the Davis Cup semifinals, with both players carrying the
responsibility of earning a point for their respective countries. The Italians
were under pressure after Lorenzo Musetti conceded his match against Miomir
Kecmanovic (6-7, 6-2, 6-1), making a Djokovic victory crucial for Serbia to
advance to the final without the need for doubles play.
In the
first set, Sinner dominated with a strong serve, winning 76% of service points
compared to Djokovic's 52%. The Italian showcased his impressive repertoire
from the start, hitting 12 winners to Djokovic's one. Although both initially
held their serves without trouble, Djokovic experienced a dip in performance,
unable to cope with his opponent's aggression, losing four consecutive games,
and Sinner closed the set 6-2 in his favor.
Djokovic
elevated his game in the second set, securing an early break in the fourth game
to take a 3-1 lead. He maintained this advantage throughout the set. With a 5-2
lead, 'Nole' secured another break and won the set 6-2, leveling the match and
forcing it into the deciding set.
The third
set unfolded as a nervy battle, with Sinner facing challenges on his serve. The
second game, lasting 20 points, became the longest, but the world No. 4
prevailed to hold his serve and maintain parity. With the score at 5-4 and
Sinner serving, Djokovic had three match points that would have secured
Serbia's spot in the final. However, Sinner managed the pressure, defended his
serve, and extended the uncertainty.
In the
following game, it was the Italian who capitalized on his first break point
opportunity of the set, taking a 6-5 lead and ultimately winning the match with
his serve.