Top-ranked Novak Djokovic‘s bid for a sixth ATP Finals title was brought to a stunning halt by rising Italian star Jannik Sinner in their round-robin match in Turin on Tuesday. The 20-year old Sinner produced the biggest win of his young career to defeat Djokovic 7-6(7), 7-6(4) in just over two hours.
Sinner became the first player to defeat Djokovic at the ATP Finals since 2015 and ended the Serbian’s 19-match winning streak. Djokovic had not lost a singles match since the French Open quarterfinals in June against Rafael Nadal. However, playing with fearless aggression in front of his home crowd, Sinner outlasted Djokovic in two tight tiebreaks to claim a memorable victory.
Jannik Sinner stuns Novak Djokovic in Turin to record career-defining victory
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Facing the 21-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic on one of the biggest stages of his young career, Sinner showcased nerves of steel to produce his finest performance yet. After the match, Sinner said: “Putting together all circumstances, playing here in Turin against the No. 1 in the world, he won 24 Grand Slams, with such an atmosphere and everything, I think it’s in the top, top, no? Obviously, as I said before, even if I would have lost today, the match was really good. Also for my mind was really important to go close this match so in my mind I know I can really trying to win against him also for the next matches. I think it’s in the top, so…”
Jannik Sinner says his win over Novak Djokovic is his most special win of his career:
“It's a great privilege for me to play here in Turin. I expected a very tough match but with the crowd trying to help me it was easier. I tried to put everything in the right direction and when… pic.twitter.com/8pG9k1ChRy
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) November 15, 2023
As Sinner stated in his on-court interview, while a loss may not have damaged him too much, the win was crucial for his confidence and mental strength going forward (Sportstar, 2022). “Also for my mind was really important to go close this match so in my mind I know I can really trying to win against him also for the next matches,” Sinner said.
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Jannik Sinner’s rise to the top continues
Still only 21 years old, Sinner has enjoyed a breakout season, rising to a career-high ranking of No. 9. He won his maiden ATP title in Washington and reached the quarterfinals of the US Open. His victory over Djokovic is further proof of his ability to compete against the game’s best on the biggest stages.
Read More: Days After Arrogant ‘Winning’ Remark, Novak Djokovic Gets a Reality Check From Jannik Sinner
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Sinner’s triumph over Djokovic marks a significant milestone in his young career. It showed he now belongs among the elite and can challenge for major titles in the future. His continuing rise in 2023 and beyond will be one to watch for tennis fans around the world.
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