In an impressive turnaround, Jannik Sinner secured his first victory against Daniil Medvedev at the China Open, claiming his third title of the season.
Despite trailing 0-6 in their previous encounters, Sinner displayed composure, delivering powerful groundstrokes and strong serves to defeat Medvedev 7-6(2), 7-6(2).
Sinner acknowledged the intense battles they’ve had this year and joked about being “third time lucky” after two previous final losses to Medvedev. He also expressed gratitude for the learning experience and the improvement it brought to his game, emphasizing the effort he and his team invested in finding a way to beat Medvedev.
“We had some very tough battles, especially this year. And, as you said, third time lucky,” he added, referring to their two previous finals.”
“Most importantly, thanks for making me a much better player. We’ve been practicing a lot for trying to beat you. So, thank you so much,” he said.
He also offered his congratulations to Daniil Medvedev’s team for their outstanding season. The former World No. 1 has reached eight finals this season, including the 2023 US Open, and secured five titles, including the Masters 1000 in Miami and Rome.
“Congratulations to you all as well. You’ve had an exceptional season. I wish you the best in the remaining few tournaments. Although there aren’t many left, I hope both of us can achieve excellent results there too,” Sinner remarked.
With this win, Sinner climbed to World No. 4 in the ATP Live Rankings, becoming the second Italian ever to reach the Top 5.
Medvedev, aiming for his 21st title, couldn’t overcome Sinner’s determined play. He will now prepare for the Shanghai Masters as the second seed.
Jannik Sinner in 2023
WWWWWWWWLW Ranked no.7, the Italian played his last match on the 4th of October when he defeated world no.3 Daniil Medvedev 7-6(2) 7-6(2) in the final in Beijing to win his 10th career title.
Presently, during this year Jannik achieved an overall 49-13 record. Jannik clinched 3 titles in 2023 in Montpellier, Toronto and Beijing. The Italian was the finalist in Rotterdam and Miami.
Sinner is scheduled to compete next in Antwerp (European Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 16th of October.
Daniil Medvedev in 2023
Now the world no.3, the Russian played his last match on the 4th of October when he capitulated to world no.7 Jannik Sinner 7-6(2) 7-6(2) in the final in Beijing (draw).
Presently, during this year the Russian has achieved a 59-13 record. The Russian clinched 5 titles in 2023 in Rotterdam, Doha, Dubai, Miami and Rome. Medvedev reached the final in Indian Wells, U.S. Open and Beijing.
Jannik Sinner and Daniil Medvedev squared off 7 times. Their record is 6-1 for Medvedev. The last time they played each other, Jannik Sinner won 7-6(2) 7-6(2) in the final in Beijing (China Open) on the 4th of October 2023.
Here are the highlights.
