Felix Auger-Aliassime on Facing Jannik Sinner: ‘I matched him at times’

ATP Tour

Auger-Aliassime Reflects on Tough Battle Against Sinner: ‘I Went Toe-to-Toe at Times’

The Canadian star remains hesitant to claim the title of a true contender against the World No. 1.

Date: September 06, 2025

In the face of defeat, Felix Auger-Aliassime discovered a sense of redemption during Friday night’s showdown at Flushing Meadows.

Wrapping up a remarkable journey to the US Open semi-finals—highlighted by triumphs over notable opponents like third seed Alexander Zverev, 15th seed Andrey Rublev, and eighth seed Alex de Minaur—the 25-year-old Canadian pushed defending champion Jannik Sinner to the brink in a riveting four-set match.

Auger-Aliassime fought hard to achieve scores of 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, having come close to an early break in the third set with five break chances. This performance stands in stark contrast to his prior 6-0, 6-2 loss to Sinner at the Cincinnati Open just a month ago, fueling Auger-Aliassime’s optimism moving forward.

“I played significantly better,” he remarked about his rematch with the reigning US Open champion. “Cincinnati was surprising; we hadn’t faced each other in years, and his swift return game caught me off guard.”

“After falling behind quickly, it impacted my play. However, tonight, I had a clearer expectation. He started strong, but I approached the match with increased confidence, knowing I could elevate my game as it progressed.”

After dropping the first set, the seven-time ATP Tour titlist showcased remarkable resilience, allowing just one point on his serve during a stunning second set. He matched Sinner’s power from the baseline while exhibiting impressive finesse at the net, clinching 22 of 31 points up front. Had he converted more than one of his ten break points, the narrative could have been drastically different.

When reflecting on his US Open journey, Auger-Aliassime expressed satisfaction with various aspects of his game: “I was pleased with my serving, forehand, and movement around the court. My backhand too—there’s so much to be happy about.”

“Most importantly, it’s about believing in myself. Knowing I have what it takes to win these types of matches—even in challenging moments, like during the quarter-finals—reinforces my mentality. Even at my worst in the tournament, I maintained faith that my moment would come.”

Climbing eight spots to 10th in the PIF ATP Live Race to Turin, Auger-Aliassime is aiming to secure a spot at the Nitto ATP Finals in November for the second time. Yet, when asked about his potential rivalry with players like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, he shared measured thoughts.

“Time will reveal that,” he said. “I don’t want to jump to conclusions. For now, I want to savor this tournament and all the positives.”

“You shape your future with your strengths, making gradual improvements. So, I’m just absorbing it all. I definitely felt competitive and had some great exchanges.”

The Canadian’s immediate focus shifts to his wedding later this month to Nina Ghaibi in Marrakesh, Morocco.

When asked about fitting for his wedding suit, he joked, “No way! I was busy on the court! You really think I was on the phone immediately after my loss figuring that out? I’ll handle it tomorrow.”

Auger-Aliassime also mentioned that he has yet to decide if he will participate in the Davis Cup, scheduled just days before his wedding.