Jannik Sinner delivered a masterclass performance at the Italian Open on Thursday, cruising past third-ranked Casper Ruud 6-0, 6-1 to reach the semifinals. The world No. 1’s ruthless display delighted fans and showcased his dominance on clay just days after a private Vatican meeting with Pope Francis, who shares Sinner’s passion for tennis.
Sinner overwhelmed Ruud — fresh off a Madrid Open title — with precision baseline strikes and relentless power, winning 55 of 77 total points. The Italian has not dropped a set in Rome, a remarkable feat for his first tournament since claiming the Australian Open crown in January.
"I was feeling great on court today," Sinner remarked post-match. "These are very positive signs as I build momentum." Ruud, who has never won a set against Sinner, praised his opponent’s "next-level" play, humorously likening it to facing "a wall that shoots 100 mph balls."
Next, Sinner faces Tommy Paul, who became the first American since Pete Sampras in 1994 to reach consecutive Rome semifinals. "He’s the best hitter on the circuit," Paul acknowledged, highlighting Sinner’s seamless return from a three-month hiatus.
