ATP Finals: Jannik Sinner conquers Taylor Fritz in straight sets
In a swift and decisive fashion, Taylor Fritz’s journey at the Nitto ATP Finals came to an abrupt end, falling to Jannik Sinner in straight sets.
Fritz faced critical moments serving at 4-5 in both sets, but his performance faltered. In the first set, he stumbled at 15-30, caught off guard by a drop shot from Sinner.
In the second set, with the score at 30-30, a routine backhand from Fritz fell into the net. Both blunders were immediately capitalized on by Sinner, who intensified his forehand shots, forcing errors from Fritz to secure the sets and the match with a score of 6-4, 6-4.
The match showcased a clear distinction between the two players, even though the scoreline suggested a closer contest. This was their fourth encounter, yet Sinner remarked that they were well-acquainted with each other’s game, particularly after a hard-fought victory at the US Open in September.
“We knew exactly what to expect today,” he commented. “He was very aggressive, and I was prepared.” From the outset, it was evident that Sinner’s preparation paid off.
In an early exchange while serving at 30-15, Fritz unleashed a powerful forehand, only to see Sinner counter with ease, demonstrating his ability to elevate his game. This moment left Fritz visibly stunned, reminding him that Sinner possessed an extra level of play.
Both players showcased their skills with strong serves and aggressive shots, rarely resorting to finesse. However, Sinner consistently managed to find the final answer when it mattered, boasting 18 unforced errors compared to Fritz’s 26. Sinner’s second serve proved more effective as well, earning him 59% of the points on his second serve, compared to Fritz’s 38%.
“I just tried to serve very well in the important moments, which I did,” Sinner reflected post-match. Each set presented pivotal moments where the momentum could have shifted. In the first set at 3-3, Sinner faced a break point but saved it with a well-placed angled forehand.
In the second set, at 3-3 again, he found himself down 0-30 on his serve but recovered brilliantly, winning crucial points with a drop shot winner and a stunning backhand pass.
Sinner’s gesture for the crowd to make more noise contrasted with Fritz’s visible frustration, highlighting the intensity of the match. “I read a little bit where he was playing,” Sinner explained modestly. “I just tried to pass him somehow. If he breaks me there, the momentum could change.”
The match served as a reflection of both players’ seasons. Fritz has made significant strides to break into the Top 10 and push for the Top 5, but he has encountered formidable opponents like Novak Djokovic and Sinner at key moments.
With one win and one loss this week, Fritz still has the opportunity to advance in Turin. On the other hand, Sinner is proving to be a formidable competitor at home, now holding a 2-0 record and looking almost unbeatable on hard courts for over a year. Against Fritz, he demonstrated not only his ability to match his opponent’s best play but also surpass it.
