Sinner Survives Early US Open Test, Advances to Fourth Round

Jannik Sinner experienced a challenging start in the first week of the US Open, losing the opening set and falling behind in the third. He acknowledged, with a smile, that he is "not a machine."

Despite these setbacks, Sinner, the top-ranked player in men's tennis, demonstrated his resilience. Having won the last three Grand Slam tournaments on hard courts, he overcame his lapses to defeat Denis Shapovalov in a four-set match, advancing to the fourth round.

Sinner reflected on the pressure and tension he faces, stating that it is normal and has been present for a year. He emphasized the importance of handling it, recognizing that it's preferable to deal with pressure than to lack it.

His next match will be against either Tommy Paul or Alexander Bublik, with a spot in the quarterfinals on the line. This victory extended Sinner's unbeaten streak on hard courts at majors to 24 matches, encompassing his US Open win in 2024, Australian Open titles in 2024 and 2025, and his Wimbledon victory on grass courts in July.

Sinner's set streak in New York, however, came to an end. He had previously won 14 consecutive sets since dropping one in a quarterfinal victory against Daniil Medvedev a year ago.

Sinner attributed some of his struggles to his serve not feeling quite right and Shapovalov reading it well. Shapovalov acknowledged that he was able to put pressure on Sinner, suggesting that other players could potentially do the same.

The opening set featured a notable 30-stroke point, which Sinner ultimately won with a remarkable lob. After losing the first set, Sinner found himself trailing in the third set. However, he then took control of the match, winning nine consecutive games. Shapovalov recognized Sinner's resilience and fighting spirit, acknowledging that he is number one for a reason.