Super Sinner slams Ruud to set up Fritz clash

Jannik Sinner put on a clinical display in front of a packed-out home crowd to crush Casper Ruud 6-1, 6-2 for a place in the title match of the ATP Finals.

The Turin schooling of the Norwegian took just 68 minutes and sends world No. 1 Sinner into the Sunday final against Taylor Fritz in a repeat of the US Open final of two months ago won by the Italian.

It will be Sinner’s second year-end final in a row after losing to Novak Djokovic here in 2023.

Fritz is the first American to play for year-end honours title since James Blake lost the Shanghai Masters Cup final nearly two decades ago to Roger Federer.

Fritz booked his spot 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (3) over Alexander Zverev in a draining win lasting for two and a quarter hours.

Sinner stormed into command of No. 7 Ruud as he dominated the opening set in 31 minutes with a double break. Another two breaks were all it took in the second set to complete the win with a ninth ace.

The Italian goes into the final with four wins from as many matches – all in straight sets.

“I got early breaks in each set and was able to concentrate on my serving, ” the winners said. “I had to save break points at 31 in the first set.

“But I raised my level and was quite intense. I’m happy with the performance and to get into the final again.”

Sinner owns a 3-1 record over No. 5 Fritz and is expecting a struggle with the man he beat in the round-robin here last Tuesday .

“I’ll try to play the best I can, but anything can happen. I’m just happy to be back in the final.

“I have more experience as a player than a year ago. Hopefully it will be a good day but even if it’s not I’ve still had a positive week and year so I’m happy.”

Sinner owns seven ATP titles this season and stands 69-9. he has won all nine indoor matches he has played in 2024, including the February title in Rotterdam. 

The reigning Australian and US Open champion will be playing his ninth final of the season.