ATP Finals: Relentless Jannik Sinner dominates Alex De Minaur in commanding opener

Jannik Sinner begins his ATP Finals journey with a victory over Alex De Minaur, winning 6-3, 6-4. The world No. 1 remained consistent throughout the match in an atmosphere filled with support for the local hero, who had no trouble overcoming the Australian and extending his head-to-head lead to 8-0.

Sinner now has 66 wins this season and has started his quest for an eighth title in 2024 on the right foot. The 23-year-old Italian tied in the top of the group with Taylor Fritz, his next opponent, who defeated Daniil Medvedev.

Sinner overcomes early break to defeat De Minaur

At the start of the match, De Minaur appeared energetic and eager to face the two-time Grand Slam champion. In the third game, a couple of unforced errors from Sinner allowed the Australian to secure the first break. However, the local favorite stood firm from the return and, with solid returns on De Minaur's first serve, quickly broke back.

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Sinner then shifted gears, winning four consecutive games after two breaks, leading 5-2. Without giving De Minaur many chances, Sinner closed out the set 6-3, winning 75% of his service points compared to just 50% for De Minaur.

While Sinner’s strengths span all aspects of the game, today he was dominant on the return, hitting deep shots to counter his opponent’s serves and even securing winners on De Minaur’s first serve.

Jannik Sinner at 2024 China Open.

De Minaur remained composed despite the unfavorable score, though it was clear that Sinner was superior in play. Sinner’s forehand and backhand exchanges averaged about 20 km/hr (12 mph) faster than De Minaur's, creating an almost unmanageable difference, especially on indoor hard courts.

Both players held serve in the opening games, but in the fifth, Sinner gained three break opportunities. The match was briefly paused when a spectator required medical attention. During the break, the world No. 1 quickly brought a bottle of water to the stands, earning applause from the crowd.

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Back in the match, De Minaur fought back from 0-40, but Sinner ultimately secured the break on his fourth chance. From then on, the Australian tried to stay in the match but couldn’t do much against his nearly relentless opponent, who conceded only four points on his serve throughout the set.

There were no more break chances, and an unstoppable Jannik Sinner sealed the win on his serve, 6-3, 6-4. The group’s second round will be played on Tuesday, with a clash between the winners, Sinner and Taylor Fritz, while De Minaur will face Medvedev, both needing a win to stay alive in the tournament.