Sinner Beats Tiafoe To Take Home Cincinnati Open Title
Jannik Sinner has continued his impressive 2024 season by winning the Cincinnati Open title, further solidifying his status as the world’s top-ranked player ahead of the U.S. Open.
The 23-year-old Italian defeated American Frances Tiafoe in straight sets, 7-6(4), 6-2, to claim his fifth title of the year and his second Masters 1000 crown of the season.
The final against Tiafoe saw Sinner take control in the first set, winning a tightly contested tiebreak before dominating the second set. Tiafoe, who had been struggling for consistency this season, was unable to convert three break points in the first set and fell behind early in the second. Sinner capitalised on his opportunities, sealing the win with a powerful serve that Tiafoe couldn’t return.
Sinner has battled through injuries and illness in recent months, including a hip issue and a bout of tonsillitis that forced him to skip the Paris Olympics.
"It was a very difficult week, tough week. I'm very happy about today's match," Sinner said after the final. "It was very tough mentally... We both felt a lot of tension, but I'm very glad about the level I played, especially in the important moments."
Tiafoe’s journey to the final was a significant achievement in itself, as he battled through a series of tough matches, including a three-set win over Holger Rune in the semifinals.
"I've been struggling for a really long time so to have a week like this really means a lot," Tiafoe said, reflecting on his run to his first Masters 1000 final.
Sinner’s triumph in Cincinnati not only adds another title to his already impressive year but also serves as a crucial confidence boost ahead of the U.S. Open.
"Now, for sure, it's important to recover, to be ready for New York," Sinner said, acknowledging the need to focus on preparation for the upcoming major. "I'm very happy to be in a position where I am and just trying to keep going mentally with this hunger to keep playing."
Sinner heads into the U.S. Open as one of the top favourites, along with defending champion Novak Djokovic and world number three Carlos Alcaraz. His performance in Cincinnati has shown that even when not at his physical peak, he can find a way to win, making him a formidable contender at Flushing Meadows.
