Jannik Sinner secured his second Grand Slam title of 2024 on Sunday, delivering a stunning performance to defeat Taylor Fritz in straight sets at the US Open final. The 23-year-old Italian triumphed with a score of 6-3, 6-4, 7-5, shattering American hopes of seeing a male champion at the majors for the first time in 21 years.
World number one Sinner, who claimed his maiden Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January, made history as the first Italian man to win the US Open. His victory marked his 55th match win of the season and his sixth title, solidifying his status as one of the leading figures in tennis’s new era.
After his 21-year-old rival Carlos Alcaraz captured the French Open and Wimbledon titles earlier this year, taking his own Grand Slam tally to four, Sinner’s victory in New York cements the rivalry between the two young powerhouses of the sport.
Fritz, ranked world number 12, was aiming to become the first American man since Andy Roddick in 2003 to win a major title. The 26-year-old was buoyed by enthusiastic support from the 23,000-strong crowd inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, which included numerous A-list celebrities.
The match began with Sinner racing to a 2-0 lead in the first set before Fritz found his footing to level at 2-2. Despite saving a break point with an exhausting 23-shot rally in the fifth game, Fritz soon fell behind again as Sinner broke to lead 4-3. The Italian maintained his momentum, clinching the first set and setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
Sinner’s dominance continued in the second set, showcasing his powerful baseline game and agility around the court. Fritz battled valiantly, but the American was unable to find a way past Sinner’s consistent play. In the third set, Fritz showed signs of a comeback, pushing Sinner to 5-5. However, the Italian remained composed under pressure, breaking Fritz once more before serving out the match to claim the championship.
“It’s an incredible feeling to win here in New York,” Sinner said during the trophy presentation. “Taylor played a great match, and the atmosphere was unbelievable. To win my second Grand Slam title this year is a dream come true.”
With this victory, Sinner has firmly established himself at the top of men’s tennis, and his burgeoning rivalry with Alcaraz promises an exciting future for the sport. Tennis fans worldwide will be eagerly anticipating their next encounters as the new generation continues to make its mark on the global stage.
