Jannik Sinner emerged victorious over Novak Djokovic in a thrilling final at the Shanghai Masters on Sunday, defeating the Serbian star 7-6(4), 6-3 at the Qi Zhong Stadium in Shanghai Municipality, China.
The 23-year-old World No. 1 showcased exceptional skill and composure, particularly in the first set, which saw both players dominate on serve without conceding a breakpoint. The set culminated in a tense tiebreaker, where Sinner surged ahead to claim it 7-4 after taking the first four points.
“He was serving great in the first set; I really couldn’t find a way to break him,” Sinner reflected after the match. “Then I played a very good tiebreaker in the first set, which gave me the confidence to start off well in the second set. I’m obviously very happy about my performance throughout this whole tournament. It’s a very special one.”
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, was aiming to secure his 100th singles title, a milestone that would place him alongside tennis legends Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103 titles). Federer himself was in attendance, watching from the stands alongside four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz.
However, Sinner had other plans, maintaining his momentum into the second set, where he secured the only service break of the match. With unwavering focus, he closed out the set 6-3 to clinch the championship, becoming the youngest-ever champion in Shanghai.
Sinner’s victory not only extends Djokovic’s wait for the coveted 100th title but also marks a significant milestone in his own career. Improving his record in tiebreakers this year to 24-8, Sinner continues to establish himself as a dominant force on the tour.
The packed crowd at the Qi Zhong Stadium witnessed a high-caliber display of tennis, with both athletes showcasing why they are at the top of the sport. Sinner’s triumph adds a new chapter to the Shanghai Masters’ history and sets the stage for an exciting future in men’s tennis.
