A sensational, back and forth encounter, was sealed by just two breaks of serve – coming at 5-4 in each set to hand Jannik Sinner the match. 

The home favourite enjoyed a hero’s welcome in Turin during his opening victory against Alex de Minaur.

Tuesday night was no different with Sinner delivering a confident and clinical performance in front of 12,000 cries of ‘Forza!’

Jannik Sinner admits ‘surprise’ at Italian support

Leading up to this year’s ATP Finals, Sinner has enjoyed a remarkable 12 months. 

Guiding Italy to their first Davis Cup title in 47 years in November last year has only seen his status grow.

His success on the court and his humility off of it have only amplified the excitement of Italian fans eager to support one of their own.

The atmosphere in Turin so far has been electric, with thousands turning out to cheer Sinner on as he closes in on his maiden ATP Finals title, after coming second last year. 

Reflecting on his experience, Sinner shared his surprise and gratitude for the overwhelming support from Italian fans: “I am surprised! I am just a 23 year old man who plays tennis. I have some sponsors and the headquarters are here, so I love the families of my sponsors and the connection that I have with them.

“Playing in Italy for an Italian, it’s very, very special and I never take things for granted. I am still surprised sometimes. It’s not like it’s all normal but I try to get used to it and play some good tennis on the court, which is the reason why I am here.”

Quizzed on how he’s becoming increasingly recognisable and followed by fans, he said: “The people love the sport here. They are expecting the tennis player here. Of course there are people outside the hotel waiting for us, when we come out. It’s a very warm welcome.

“I enjoy it personally. It’s something different from the other tournaments. I don’t go out in restaurants to eat this week as I mostly am trying to practice or trying to rest in the hotel. But it’s a very special week for all of us eight.

“The Italian crowd love the sport and this week is about tennis when usually it’s about football in Italy, so they are very passionate fans.”

Jannik Sinner looks simply unstoppable

With victory against Fritz moving him to his 67th win of the year, he has also now won 27 of his last 28 matches.

Though the American seemed to stay in touch throughout, Sinner’s ability to just turn it up is proving utterly remarkable.

He seems completely unfazed by the pressure, playing with the poise of a champion at every critical moment.

With Daniil Medvedev next – an opponent he’s beaten seven out of their last eight matches including a bruising 6-0, 6-3 at the Six Kings Slam – the Italian will be looking to continue his perfect record. 

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