In an electrifying match at the Shanghai Masters on Saturday, Italy’s top-seeded Jannik Sinner secured his place in the final by defeating the Czech Republic’s Tomas Machac 6-4, 7-5. Sinner’s victory sets up a highly anticipated showdown with Serbia’s 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
The match began with Sinner conceding a break in his opening service game, but the 22-year-old displayed resilience by breaking back in the fourth game to level the first set at 2-2. Maintaining momentum, he held his serve in the ninth game and seized a crucial break point in the tenth, clinching the first set 6-4.
The second set proved to be a tighter contest. Machac pushed Sinner to the brink, earning two break points in the eighth game. However, Sinner’s composure under pressure allowed him to save both. In a dramatic twelfth game, Sinner capitalized on his first match point, breaking Machac once more to seal the match.
This victory not only marks Sinner’s first appearance in the Shanghai Masters final but also guarantees him the prestigious ATP year-end No. 1 ranking. With World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain exiting the tournament in the quarterfinals, Sinner’s ascent to the top spot is assured after he has been leading the rankings since early June.
“It’s amazing. It’s something you dream of when you are a kid, when you are young, just to reach the No. 1,” Sinner expressed with joy. “Now having the year-end, it’s also a different and special feeling. It means so much to me, obviously. This is something I could not accomplish without all the people I have around—the family and friends—and also a big credit to my team.”
Sinner’s upcoming final against Djokovic promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both players showcase exceptional form. Tennis enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await this clash of generations, with Sinner aiming to solidify his breakthrough season and Djokovic seeking to add another title to his illustrious career.
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Jannik Sinner to meet Novak Djokovic in Shanghai Masters final
cgtn.com
