Jannik Sinner wants to reach the round of 16. © APA / MATTHEW STOCKMAN
When Jannik Sinner contests his second round match at the Masters 1000 tournament in Miami on Monday night, he meets a top-class opponent. One who has already been able to conquer the Sesto – and in an extremely curious way.
March 26, 2023
From: leo
September 2020, Rome: Although Jannik Sinner triggered a real hype with his victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, no fans attended his next match against Gregor Dimitrov. Because the corona virus has the world firmly in its grip. Sinner gave the Bulgarian a tough fight, but ultimately had to admit defeat 6: 4, 4: 6 and 4: 6. Die-hard Sinner fans have never forgotten the match ball. A smash, which the 21-year-old normally uses with his eyes closed, he throws into the net. Game, set and match.
Two and a half years after that bitter day, the next duel takes place in Miami. This time, losing would not be part of the learning process, but a setback. Because in view of the level shown recently, Sesto is the clear favourite. The fact that he didn’t shine in his opening match against Laslo Djere doesn’t change that. Especially since Dimitrov also struggled hard in the second round (he also enjoyed a bye). He only beat the German Jan-Lennard Struff (ATP 103) after more than two and a half hours of play 4: 6, 7: 6 and 6: 4.
Grigor Dimitrov stands in Jannik Sinner’s way. © GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / JULIAN FINNEY
Although the 31-year-old lost a lot of grains, he will be in top form for the match. Because fitness has always characterized the Bulgarian. But Dimitrov has already passed the peak of his career. In 2017 he won the ATP Finals and climbed to 3rd place in the world rankings before falling into a hole and never being able to repeat these successes. Known for his incredible feel for the ball, Dimitrov can nonetheless pose a threat to anyone on a good day. Because he has a strong serve, an excellent forehand and a variable game. From 1 a.m. CET (7 p.m. local time in Miami) it will be clear how Sinner is coping with this. The winner of the match meets either Andrey Rublev (ATP 7) or Miomir Kecmanovic (ATP 35).
