Jannik Sinner makes history at ATP finals with first-ever Italian title
Jannik Sinner has etched his name in tennis history by becoming the first Italian to win the prestigious Nitto ATP Finals, securing a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory over Taylor Fritz in the final. The 23-year-old from South Tyrol capped off a remarkable season in front of a home crowd in Turin, marking the culmination of a year that began with an Australian Open triumph and now ends with this historic achievement.
Sinner, who finished the year with a tour-leading 70 wins, was in scintillating form throughout the final. His serve, in particular, was a lethal weapon, allowing him to dominate from the outset. According to Infosys ATP Stats, Sinner won 83% of his points on serve, finishing with 10 aces from just 21 first serves. His ability to control the match from the baseline was equally impressive, allowing him to neutralize Fritz’s attacking game and dictate play.
“I just tried to understand what works best for each opponent, playing my best possible tennis. That was the key. It was a very high-level tournament from my side. At times, I couldn’t have played better, so I am very happy,” Sinner said, reflecting on his victory.
The final lasted just 85 minutes, but Sinner was never in danger, limiting Fritz’s opportunities and maintaining his composure in crucial moments. He broke Fritz in the fifth game of the second set, effectively sealing his win and his place in tennis history.
With this victory, Sinner joins an exclusive club of players—Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic—who have won the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals in the same season. He also became the first player born in the 2000s to lift the ATP Finals trophy, adding another significant milestone to his meteoric rise in the sport.
This victory marks Sinner’s 50th hard-court win of the season and is a testament to his all-around game and mental fortitude. The Italian’s dominance was particularly evident in the first set, where he prevented Fritz from hitting a single forehand winner, a remarkable statistic that highlighted his defensive prowess.
As the crowd in Turin erupted in celebration, Sinner’s achievement resonated deeply within the tennis world. The victory not only cements his status as one of the game’s brightest stars but also serves as a defining moment in Italian tennis history.
“It’s amazing; it’s my first title in Italy, and it means so much to me. It’s something very special,” Sinner added, his voice filled with emotion.
With the season now behind him, Sinner’s historical triumph at the ATP Finals ensures that 2024 will be a year to remember for the young Italian, whose future in the sport looks brighter than ever.
