LONDON — A stunning topspin lob winner, executed with precision, soared past the towering 6-foot-6 Zverev and landed just outside the baseline during the second game.
A beautifully-crafted drop shot had Alexander Zverev shifting directions in a heartbeat, leading to a concerning moment as he over-extended his right knee at a critical stage in the third set.
Jannik Sinner showcased an impressive array of skills in his four-set triumph over Zverev in the Wimbledon final, featuring his signature explosive baseline winners alongside a fresh tactical versatility. This newfound variety proved vital as Zverev ramped up his intensity unlike ever before against the top-seeded Sinner.
The dynamic shot selection was a highlight for Sinner’s coaching duo, Darren Cahill and Simone Vagnozzi, as they admired their player’s multifaceted performance on Sunday.
Just as the legendary Big Three and Big Four have before them, Sinner, Zverev, and the injury-recovering Carlos Alcaraz are continually polishing their games, Cahill observed.
“Alexander has adapted his style when going up against Jannik,” Cahill commented. “We understand that Jannik will need to refine certain aspects to manage this level of competition. Carlos will come roaring back as well; it’s essential for him to keep evolving his game.”
“We noticed him trying shots he typically hesitates to play, even during the final: sliced backhands, lobs, and drop shots. He really elevated his game when it mattered most.”
Narrowing the gap to Alcaraz in Grand Slam titles
Sinner’s back-to-back Wimbledon victories have brought his Grand Slam title count to five, matching Alcaraz’s two titles at the prestigious All England Club and reducing the gap to Alcaraz’s seven.
While Alcaraz missed both the French Open and Wimbledon this year due to a right wrist injury, it remains uncertain whether he’ll be ready for the U.S. Open, the final Grand Slam of the year.
Zverev’s remarkable performance in London has propelled him ahead of Alcaraz to claim the No. 2 ranking in the latest standings released Monday.
His grass court success came on the heels of his first major title at the French Open, following Sinner’s surprising second-round exit in Paris.
“Huge respect to Sascha; he’s achieving extraordinary things. His game is continually evolving,” Sinner said, referring to Zverev’s nickname. “You always have someone pushing you to your limits. We’re hopeful for Carlos’s return because tennis needs him.”
“Having experienced players like Novak still around, combined with the influx of young talent, makes it an exciting time,” Sinner stated, reflecting on his semifinal win over the 39-year-old Djokovic. “Hard work is essential.”
Sinner’s mother couldn’t bear to watch
Sinner displayed grit, overcoming a set deficit in a grueling five-set match against Miomir Kecmanovic in the opening round, all while combating a toenail issue that soaked his shoe in blood.
He didn’t lose another set until Zverev unleashed a flurry of serves clocking up to 139 mph (224 km/h), complemented by powerful forehands aimed at the corners.
Sinner recognized the challenge ahead when Zverev secured the first set tie-breaker with a stunning inside-out forehand winner.
His mother, Siglinde, felt the tension too, opting to step outside the stadium during some of the nail-biting moments on Centre Court.
“I saw my mom leave the stadium a few times,” Sinner shared during his victory speech, glancing at her as she returned for the trophy presentation. “It’s quite nerve-racking.”
Amid the punishing heat of late May in Paris, Sinner’s impressive 30-match winning streak ended just one game short of a straight-set victory over Juan Manuel Cerundolo, ranked No. 56.
Following his defeat in Paris, Sinner underwent medical examinations in Milan where doctors discovered the source of his discomfort, although he chose not to disclose the specifics.
“His medical circumstances are private, and we will not discuss them openly,” Cahill stated. “It’s on us to adapt and implement changes where necessary.”
Now, Sinner frequently leaves the court between sets to cool off, change his shirt, and enjoy a respite from the heat. Prior to Wimbledon, he relied on an ice vest during a previous heatwave.
“He’s a redhead from northern Italy, who grew up in snowy Alpine conditions. Adjusting to hot weather isn’t quite the same for him as it is for others,” Cahill clarified.
“The more he acclimates to warmer climates, the better he’ll perform,” Cahill added. “We might even shift his preseason to spend more time in sunnier locales to help him adjust to these conditions.”
