ATP
Injured FAA falls to storming Sinner
Jannik Sinner took all of his chances against injured Felix Auger-Aliassime on Monday to earn a resounding 7-5, 6-1 opening win as the Italian began his title defence at the ATP Finals.
Canada’s FAA suffered a problem with his left calf in the last game of the opening set and needed two visits from the trainer in the second set.
World No. 2 Sinner kept it strictly business as he crushed his opponent in the second set with two breaks of serve to claim the group match.
He has now won his last 27 on indoor hardcourt.
“It was a very tough match,” the winner said. “He played very aggressive tennis, I’m happy to come through a very tough test.
“I had to be consistent physically and mentally. But if you have chances you have to use them in the best way.
“Winning the first match (in the group stage) is always very important. I hope Felix’s injury is not too serious. You don’t want to win like this.”
The contest was a repeat of the Paris indoor final earlier this month, which Sinner also won.
The home player now stands 11-2 at year-end events and improved to 4-2 over the Canadian.