PARIS — Jannik Sinner has triumphed over the world’s top player, Novak Djokovic, with a score of 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (3) in the French Open semifinals. Now, he faces the formidable challenge of dethroning defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the championship match.
Throughout this tournament, Sinner has showcased his prowess without dropping a single set. However, he knows Alcaraz holds a winning streak in their recent encounters, having claimed victory in their last four meetings, with a lifetime record favoring him at 7-4. While Sinner seeks his fourth Grand Slam title, Alcaraz is eyeing his fifth.
“We push ourselves to the limits,” Sinner remarked. “The stakes don’t get any higher than this.”
Even a 24-time Grand Slam champion like Djokovic struggled against Sinner’s relentless precision and power on the hallowed grounds of Court Philippe-Chatrier.
“I focused on each point, striving for the right intensity,” Sinner explained. “You have to be prepared to retaliate, so staying concentrated is key. If you lose focus, the match slips away.”
With this remarkable achievement, Sinner has become the second Italian man to reach the Roland-Garros final in the Open era, following Adriano Panatta’s victory in 1976.
In earlier action, Alcaraz secured his place in the final after Lorenzo Musetti retired due to a leg injury while trailing 4-6, 7-6 (3), 6-0, 2-0.
Djokovic attempted a comeback in the third set, but faltered in the tiebreaker, missing an easy volley at the net and ultimately losing on his second match point when his forehand clipped the net.
“These are unique moments,” Sinner said, beaming with pride. “I’m immensely happy.”
After his defeat, an emotional Djokovic acknowledged this might have been his final appearance at Roland-Garros. He kissed the court surface in a heartfelt farewell.
Sinner continues to carve his name into tennis history, having extended his Grand Slam winning streak to 20 matches after his previous triumphs at the U.S. and Australian Opens.
While Djokovic aimed for his record-extending 38th Grand Slam final, he was kept on the defensive, with Sinner’s aggressive play forcing him into a grueling back-and-forth across the court.
“I was under constant pressure, with no time to set my shots. He made me defend the whole match,” Djokovic remarked. “That’s why he’s ranked No. 1. I wish him luck in the final – it’s set to be an epic showdown between two of the best players today.”
Sinner expressed gratitude to Djokovic after marking his fourth consecutive win against the legend. “Playing against Novak in a Grand Slam semifinal is incredibly special. I had to elevate my game,” he shared.
Upon their handshake at the net, Djokovic warmly embraced Sinner, a clear gesture of respect between champions.
Frustration marked Djokovic’s face as he struggled against Sinner’s play, especially when his attempts, such as a short drop shot, failed miserably. The audience rallied behind him, roaring “Novak! Novak!” when he made a spectacular play during a lengthy rally, but Sinner ultimately clinched that game.
Sinner is stepping into the spotlight as the Roland-Garros showman, reminiscent of Djokovic’s past performances on this grand stage, where the Serbian has won three of his major titles.
A stunning drop shot showcased Sinner’s finesse, one that even the legendary Djokovic couldn’t reach.
During a changeover, Djokovic received treatment for discomfort in his upper right thigh. As Sinner tried to serve out the second set again, he prevailed when Djokovic failed to return a powerful serve.
After the set, Djokovic took a medical timeout for further treatment on his leg.
Though Djokovic appeared sharper in the third set, Sinner maintained his composure.
What was the issue with Musetti?
Earlier, Musetti faced struggles with a leg injury.
He was already down 5-0 in the third set when he called for a trainer. Alcaraz took advantage, breaking serve and wrapping up the set in just 21 minutes, winning 24 out of 29 points.
“Winning a match like this isn’t ideal. Lorenzo is a fantastic player,” Alcaraz noted. “I wish him a swift recovery.”
After being broken early in the third set, Musetti approached the net to receive a comforting hug from Alcaraz.
“I felt my leg starting to weaken during my serve in the third set,” Musetti shared. “I’ll be undergoing tests tomorrow.”
Frustrations flared for Alcaraz in the second set when he kicked at his changeover seat in exasperation.
“The first two sets were incredibly tough. Securing the second set came as a relief,” Alcaraz commented.
Competing in only his second Grand Slam semifinal after his Wimbledon run last year, Musetti proved to be a worthy opponent. Alcaraz expressed confidence heading into the final, stating, “I feel great. These three intense weeks have been challenging but rewarding.”
With an impressive record of 21-1 on clay this year, Alcaraz has captured titles in Rome and Monte Carlo, further solidifying his dominance on the surface.
