Jannik Sinner reaches for the stars. © APA / MATTHEW STOCKMAN

Finale in New York: Sinner reaches for the stars

Jannik Sinner is in the final of the US Open! In an incredibly challenging semi-final against Jack Draper, the South Tyrolean played his way into the final in New York thanks to an enormous feat of strength and is aiming for his second Grand Slam title.

September 07, 2024

From: do

Jannik Sinner and Jack Draper (ATP 3.04) duelled for 25 hours at 30 degrees Celsius and extremely high humidity in the Arthur Ashe Stadium. The semi-final of the US Open against the outsider from Great Britain demanded a lot from the number 1. Despite strong resistance from Draper, the South Tyrolean kept his nerve, won in three sets with 7:5, 7:6 (3), 6:2 and is in the final of the US Open.

Sinner is now reaching for the stars and can win the next major title after his title at the Australian Open. On Sunday he will face Taylor Fritz (ATP 20) in the final from 12 p.m. (CEST). The 26-year-old American won the second semi-final later that night against Frances Tiafoe 4:6, 7:5, 4:6, 6:4, 6:1 and is in a Grand Slam final for the first time in his career.

Jannik Sinner celebrates reaching the final. © APA / SARAH STIER

Before the semi-finals, it was clear that Jack Draper was not to be underestimated. The Brit was riding a wave of success, had not lost a set in the tournament so far and had effective weapons such as a deadly serve, a dangerous forehand and a strong defensive game. In addition, the 22-year-old is one of the more difficult opponents on the tour as a left-hander.

Sinners weapons defuse Draper

But it was precisely against such an opponent that Jannik Sinner was best prepared: The South Tyrolean countered the Brit in the semi-final with his irresistible backhand, which made Draper's usual efforts to move the game there very difficult. Although the Brit played great tennis at times and also controlled many rallies, he was unable to fully break through the South Tyrolean's strong baseline game.

Jack Draper showed a lot of emotion. © ANSA / JUSTIN LANE

The issue of serving also did not have the desired effect on Draper, who is usually so dangerous. The Brit knew that as a clear underdog he had to put a lot into the balance and therefore always sent his serves over the net at high speed. A strategy that did not work. Less than half of the first serves landed in the field, which meant that Draper was increasingly forced into rallies where Sinner was simply a bit better.

No brilliant performance from Sinner

However, it must be mentioned that the South Tyrolean did not play his best tennis on the court that evening. Sinner had a hard time at times against the Briton, who fought like a lion, and had to work hard to win every point. A surprising number of unforced errors made it difficult for him to capitalize on his numerous break chances. The 23-year-old also smashed attacking balls that he thought were safe into the net more often than usual.

Sinner grabbed his wrist after a fall. However, the all-clear was given. © APA / SARAH STIER

Things certainly didn't go quite smoothly for the world number 1. But a feat of strength in the tiebreak of the almost 90-minute second set showed the South Tyrolean's fighting spirit. After this section, his opponent Draper was broken and Sinner hurried to win the match with two breaks in the third set.