Jannik Sinner of Italy started off his Cincinnati Masters campaign with a bang, defeating US qualifier Alex Michelsen in straight sets. The world number one Italian, who is about to turn 23, fought off eight break points during the match that lasted just under two hours. Sinner’s victory marked his 25th win of the season and made him the first man to advance to the third round of the ATP-WTA tournament. Despite struggling at the Cincinnati venue in the past, Sinner expressed his happiness and positivity after the win.
Sinner, who missed the Paris Olympics due to tonsillitis and was eliminated in the quarter-finals of last week’s Montreal tournament, admitted that he is not yet at his best. However, he remains focused on his main goal, which is the US Open. Sinner sees the Cincinnati Masters as a crucial preparation opportunity for the final Grand Slam of the year. The top seed is looking forward to using the matches he can play in Cincinnati to fine-tune his game and get ready for the upcoming challenge at the US Open.
Meanwhile, ninth seed Stefano Tsitsipas made a strong comeback in his first match since parting ways with his father as coach. The Greek player fought back from a set and a break down to defeat Jan-Lennard Struff in three sets. Tsitsipas showcased 31 winners and converted on three of his 14 break-point chances during the match. The victory was an important one for Tsitsipas, who showed improvement and determination in turning the match around when he was trailing.
In the women’s draw, Paula Badosa joined her boyfriend Tsitsipas in the second round after a straight-set victory over Cincinnati local Peyton Stearns. Badosa, who recently won the Washington tournament, will face 13th seed Anna Kalinskaya in her next match. The Spanish player displayed resilience and skill in her comeback win over Siniakova, setting the stage for an exciting second-round clash at the Cincinnati Open.
Overall, the Cincinnati Masters is shaping up to be an exciting and competitive tournament, with top players giving their all to advance in the draw. Fans can expect more thrilling matches and impressive performances as the action unfolds at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio. As the last big test before the US Open, the Cincinnati Open provides players with a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their games and gain momentum heading into the final Grand Slam of the year. With world-class talent on display, tennis enthusiasts are in for a treat at this prestigious event.
