Solid Sinner swamps Fritz in US Open re-run

Jannik Sinner moved to within a hair of qualification for the weekend semi-finals at the ATP Finals on Tuesday as he ran his group record to a perfect 2-0 with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Taylor Fritz.

Italy’s world No. 1 had the support of the 12,500-strong crowd at home in Turin, with Sinner notching his 12th win this season over an American opponent.

“It was a tough match, we got to know each other well in the US Open final,” the winner said. “We knew what to expect.” 

The top seed has not yet officially qualified with one remaining group match but is a sure thing to enter the weekend knockout stage after winning two matches in straight sets here.

Sinner finished with 22 winners in the replay of September’s New York Grand Slam final where he defeated US No. 1 Fritz in straight sets.

Fritz dropped serve in the final game in both sets to take the loss in 99 minutes.

Sinner’s only tight moment came as he trailed 0-30 at 3-all in the second, but the Italian quickly levelled and then sent a passing shot down the line as he went onto hold for 4-3.

“Down 0-30, he could break and the momentum could change,’ he said. “I tried to serve well in the important moments.

“He was serving well and returning was a struggle. I’m happy with how I handled the situation.

“It was a very important day for me, I’m happy I got through. the crowd is really helping me a lot, this is a special occasion to play in Italy.”

Sinner now owns 67 wins this season, tied with Alexander Zverev on that statistic.

Main photo:- Jannik Sinner beat Taylor Fritz in straight sets – by ISF Ltd