Jannik Sinner’s charm stretches far beyond the spirited, orange-clad Carota Boys; his magnetic blend of talent and humility has won hearts everywhere. Last year, he was crowned the Fans’ Favourite singles player in the ATP Awards, a testament to the deep respect he commands across the sport. Even Ben Shelton recently admitted, “Of course, everyone here likes Jannik.” That same humility shone again last night when Sinner triumphed over an injury-stricken Felix Auger-Aliassime in his ATP Finals opener, yet graciously confessed he didn’t want to win like this against an injured Felix, capturing the true essence of a sportsman.

Jannik Sinner launched his Nitto ATP Finals title defence in commanding style on Monday evening, delighting the home crowd in Turin with a composed and calculated 7-5, 6-1 victory. Yet, beneath the scoreline lay an undercurrent of sympathy, for across the net stood Felix Auger-Aliassime, battling both Sinner’s precision and the growing pain in his leg. It was a match that began with high tension and closed with quiet concern.

Reflecting on his performance, Sinner said, “It was a very tough match until 6-5. I had some chances to break. He served very well, only once I missed a return, but it can happen. He played some very aggressive tennis, so I’m happy to overcome a very tough test today. Obviously winning the first match is very important in this competition and this format. I’m very happy.” His words carried the relief of a defending champion who knew that opening victories often set the tone for greatness.

But amid his triumph, Sinner’s humility shone through. Showing deep respect for his opponent, he added, “I hope it‘s nothing too serious. I wish him obviously a very speedy recovery and hopefully he is back to 100 per cent physically.” 

Sinner further praised his opponent’s strengths, adding, “He’s a huge server. Especially indoors. You have to be very careful. But as I said, it’s not nice. Especially Felix, he had some very tough injuries. We wish him only the best.” His tone blended respect and sorrow, acknowledging the cruel unpredictability of sport.

Earlier, the first set had unfolded like a chess match, patient, sharp, and full of subtle turns. Auger-Aliassime showed grit, fending off two break points at 3-2 and saving a set point at 5-4. Yet in the twelfth game, his resistance began to fade, his left leg betraying him after a serve at 0/30. A decisive break handed Sinner the edge, and momentum shifted firmly his way.

After an off-court medical timeout, Auger-Aliassime returned determined but clearly diminished. The Canadian fought bravely in his first ATP Finals appearance since 2022 but couldn’t regain his rhythm. Despite receiving multiple treatments for his left calf, his movement waned as Sinner tightened his grip. 

The Italian’s clean, commanding ball-striking, winning 89 per cent (32/36) of points behind his first serve, left no room for doubt. With back-to-back victories over the Canadian in Paris and now Turin, Sinner stretched his lead to 4-2 in their H2H series, beginning his title defence with both poise and quiet purpose.

(More to come…)