Jannik Sinner has paid tribute to his team for their support in recent weeks after booking his place in the semi-finals of the US Open.
The world No.1 moved into the last four of the Grand Slam following a roller-coaster 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4, win over Daniil Medvedev. Sinner won 76% of his first service points but hit 38 unforced errors compared to 31 winners. He has become the first Italian player in the Open Era to reach the semi-finals or better at three major events within the same year. Since the start of 2023, he has recorded 20 wins over top 10 players on a hardcourt.
“I’m happy with how I handled the situation.” Sinner said of his latest win.
“It’s very tough against him. I think it was a great match from both sides. I think the fourth set was more tough because the scoreboard was a bit different.
“But all things considered, I’m very, very happy, and let’s see what I can do now in the semis.”
Sinner is the only player left in the draw who has previously won a Grand Slam title. His deep run in the tournament occurred just days after it was announced that he failed two anti-doping tests but was cleared of any wrongdoing on both occasions. He tested positive for the anabolic agent clostebol but was able to prove that the source of the substance came from a spray his former physio was using on his hands whilst treating him.
Despite being cleared to play, there has been mixed reaction to the handling of Sinner’s case. Questions have been raised about the fairness of the anti-doping process in tennis with the case being resolved much quicker than other players. However, Sinner states that the reason why his case was resolved quickly was because he was able to prove how the substance entered his body.
Given the turbulent time, Sinner has relied heavily on his team for support. He is coached by Darren Cahill and Simone Vagnozzi.
“They know me and they know I always stick with the people who know me and believe me.” He said.
“It’s a very important part. I’m very happy to have them coach-wise and also off the court.
“Obviously at the beginning was a tough situation but day by day it went better. I’m happy about that. Let’s see now in the semis what I can do.”
Next up for Sinner in New York will be s showdown against British rising star Jack Draper who is yet to drop a set in the tournament. Draper’s latest win saw him beat Alex de Minaur in straight sets. He is the first male player from his country to reach the semi-finals of the US Open since Andy Murray in 2012.
Sinner and Draper are friends on the Tour who played doubles together at the Canadian Masters last month. The only time they played against each other was back in 2021 at The Queen’s Club when Draper won in straight sets.
“Jack is playing some amazing tennis. Maybe the best tennis he’s playing until now.” Said Sinner.
“He serves great, hits the forehand great, backhand very solid. He’s all around a very good player. He makes a lot of serve and volleys. Tries to go to the net. There are many things he’s doing great.”
If Sinner wins the upcoming match, he will become the first Italian man to reach the final of the US Open.
