Jannik Sinner will face Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Six Kings Slam after defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-3 in Riyadh. The Italian shared his thoughts on the upcoming clash, emphasizing mutual respect and the joy of competing.
Sinner Cruises Past Tsitsipas
Jannik Sinner delivered a commanding performance in the quarter-finals of the Six Kings Slam, dispatching Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets. The match lasted just over an hour, with Sinner exploiting Tsitsipas’s vulnerable one-handed backhand and converting six of ten break points. The victory sets up a high-profile semi-final against Novak Djokovic, who received a bye into the last four.
Reunion with Djokovic
This marks another chapter in the growing rivalry between Sinner and Djokovic. The two have met multiple times over the past few seasons, with Sinner gaining confidence from recent wins. Their familiarity adds intrigue to the exhibition event, which is being held in Saudi Arabia and streamed live on Netflix.
“We know each other very well… we’ve played many many times. It’s great to share the court again with Novak,” said Sinner.
Focus on Entertainment and Sportsmanship
The Six Kings Slam is designed as a showcase of elite tennis, with each participant earning a $1.5 million appearance fee and $4.5 million awarded to the winner. More than just competition, the event aims to bring top-tier tennis to new audiences.
“Mostly we are here to enjoy. To bring tennis here. All we hope is that you guys enjoy. That’s why we’re here,” Sinner added.
Looking Ahead
Sinner enters the semi-final as the defending champion, having won the inaugural edition last year by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, remains a formidable opponent despite the exhibition setting. Their upcoming match promises high-quality tennis and a celebration of the sport’s global reach.
Jannik Sinner in 2025
Now the world no.2, Sinner played his last match on the 5th of October when he had to retire when playing against world no.27 Tallon Griekspoor in the 3rd
round and the scoreline was 6-7(3) 7-5 3-2 .This year Jannik has a composed 43-6 record. The Italian clinched 3 titles in 2025 at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. The Italian was the finalist in Rome, French Open, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Vienna. The main draw will start on the 20th of October.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Currently the world no.5, Novak played his last match on the 11th of October when he capitulated to world no.40 Valentin Vacherot 6-3 6-4 in the semifinal in Shanghai (draw).
This season the Serbian has managed to achieve a composed 35-11 match record. Djokovic clinched 1 title in Geneva. Djokovic got to the final in Miami.
He is also scheduled to play in Athens (Hellenic Championship) on the 2nd of November.
Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic fought against each other 10 times. Their record is 6-4 for Sinner.