Jannik Sinner is returning to a final of another China Open, but there is a twist. On Tuesday, the Italian star battled his way to the final after he overcame Alex de Minaur in a semifinal that saw him win 6-3, 4-6, 6-2.
Instead of Daniil Medvedev in the spot many people would have predicted, it is the 19-year-old American, Learner Tien, who made his first ATP Tour final when Medvedev retired and defeated him in their semifinal with severe cramping.
Sinner Keeps Streak Alive
The 2023 champion in Beijing, Sinner, went flying in the match against De Minaur. He had smashed the Australian early and ran the first set. In the second, things became more difficult as De Minaur excavated, and leveraged the physical struggles of Sinner to make the match even.
However, as the tension increased, Sinner demonstrated why he is among the most constant players on the tour. The top-ranked player in the world shattered his first-match final in the decider and did not look back as he secured his ninth consecutive appearance in the final of the hardcourt.
The level was extremely high, said Sinner. Several rallies and numerous opportunities in either direction. Breaking early in the third set gave me confidence as I was attempting to increase my level. I was quite pleased with the way I did it.
Tien’s Breakthrough Moment
At the other end of the draw Tien took advantage of a sudden chance. The teenager was winning the third set, 4-0, after the two long sets of toe-to-toe with Medvedev, who collapsed with cramps and declared the match over.
You want to win it in your way, but I am glad to be in the final, said Tien. It is great to play a person such as Sinner. I am just anticipating it.
Although the abrupt conclusion, Tien received a lot of respect due to his strength. He had fought back down 1 and pawed back down 3-5 in the second to put a decider in reach before Medvedev retired to close the largest victory of his young career.
A Clash of Generations
The last will on Sunday will be the battle between the time-tested champion and the up-and-comer. To Sinner, it is an opportunity to take another title and give his reign on hardcourts. To Tien, it is a dream of a chance to make it or break it with one of the best.
Anyhow, it will be history in Beijing: Sinner pursuing another medal, or Tien taking his first one.
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