(VIDEO) Jannik Sinner faces young fan in practice and loses point in first defeat technically of 2024 season
ATPSunday, 10 March 2024 at 22:46
Jannik
Sinner faced off against a kid during a practice session at Indian Wells and
experienced his first "defeat" of the year. The Italian boasts 16
consecutive victories on the Tour, including a second-round win against Thanasi
Kokkinakis by 6-3, 6-0.
Sinner's
stellar moment has positioned him as the best player of the year so far. He
clinched his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and followed it up
with a triumph at the Rotterdam Open two weeks later.
Read also
However,
during practice, Sinner demonstrated that he is not invincible when he engaged
in an unofficial mini-match against a young fan. The amusing moment was shared
by Tennis TV, showing the kid winning two points, one with a forehand and the
other with a backhand winner.
The
lighthearted encounter concluded with Sinner fist-bumping the fan before
leaving the court, creating a moment that he'll likely not forget.
Third round at Indian Wells
Now, the
22-year-old youngster will face German Jan-Lennard Struff in the third round at
Tennis Paradise and could extend his winning streak. Among active players, he
is tied with Alexander Zverev in 2021 and Felix Auger Aliassime in 2022, both
with 16 consecutive victories. If Sinner defeats Struff, he will reach the
milestone of 17, trailing only behind Daniil Medvedev, Andy Murray, Rafael
Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
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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