Jannik Sinner beat Novak Djokovic in straight sets to move into the French Open final in Paris. (AP)
The match lasted three hours and 16 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic in straight sets 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/3) at the French Open semi-finals on Friday, setting up a final clash with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, who advanced when Lorenzo Musetti retired due to injury. This victory marks Sinner’s first Grand Slam final appearance, while ending Djokovic’s quest for a record-breaking 25th major title. World number one Sinner maintained his impressive form, remaining undefeated in sets throughout the tournament.
The 23-year-old Italian showed remarkable composure, particularly when breaking back immediately after failing to serve out the second set. He hit 44 winners across the three sets and successfully defended three set points in the tenth game of the third set. The 22-year-old Spaniard, seeking his fifth Grand Slam title, expressed confidence ahead of the final: “It’s been three intense weeks and now I have one step to make.
“Obviously Wimbledon is next, which is my childhood favourite tournament,” said Djokovic. “It’s never great to go through or win a match when it’s like this,” said Alcaraz. “I’m going to do everything possible to get myself ready. I guess my best chances maybe are Wimbledon, to win another Slam, or faster hard court, maybe Australia or something like that. The Serbian champion reflected on his future at Roland Garros: “This could have been the last match ever I played here, so I don’t know. You know, I’m going to keep on keeping on. “He’s done an incredible clay season. I wish him all the best, a quick recovery and that he’ll be back soon.
I don’t know really what tomorrow brings in a way at this point in my career. I’ll give everything on Sunday, I’ve been playing great tennis this tournament.”
“He is the best player in the history of our sport, playing against him here is amazing,” said Sinner. “Of course I try to not think about this but before coming on court you feel the tension.”