World number one Jannik Sinner beats Alexander Zverev 6-4, 6-3 to qualify for the ATP Finals semi-finals with one group match remaining
TURIN: Jannik Sinner secured his place in the ATP Finals semi-finals with a commanding 6-4, 6-3 victory over Alexander Zverev on Wednesday.
The world number one qualified from the Bjorn Borg group with one match to spare as he bids to defend his title at the prestigious season-ending tournament.
Sinner overcame a hand problem early in the match to defeat Zverev for the fifth consecutive time.
The Italian was brutal on serve, firing 12 aces and converting key break points at crucial moments.
“If we watch the match today, there were one or two points, that’s why I won the first set,” Sinner told reporters.
Zverev failed to capitalise on any of his seven break point opportunities during the match.
The German must now beat Felix Auger-Aliassime in his final group match on Friday to progress to the semi-finals.
“He’s not unplayable. I had many opportunities. He had one, he used the chance. This is why he’s number one in the world, you know?” Zverev said.
In the other group match, Auger-Aliassime battled back to defeat Ben Shelton 4-6, 7-6 (9/7), 7-5.
The Canadian won just his second ever match at the season-ending tournament with an aggressive display.
“I think I played great, very aggressive, hitting very good balls on backhand and forehand, so I went for it and in the end it paid off,” Auger-Aliassime told Sky Sport.
Shelton had looked in control after winning the first set but was ultimately undone by erratic play.
The American acknowledged the learning curve of competing against the world’s best players.
Auger-Aliassime will face Zverev on Friday with a chance to reach the knockout stage.
Sinner will play Shelton in his final group match aiming to secure top spot in the group. – AFP
