Jannik Sinner’s recent triumph at the ATP Finals has been overshadowed by an ongoing doping case, where he tested positive in two separate drug tests in March. Although he was initially cleared of wrongdoing, the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed the decision in September, with a final verdict expected early next year. Sinner attributed the positive test to an unintentional exposure to a banned substance, explaining that it came from a spray used by his physiotherapist. Reflecting on the ordeal, Sinner admitted to sleepless nights and constant self-reflection but credited his team for keeping him grounded and focused on his game.
Sinner’s performance on the court this year has been extraordinary, highlighted by his ATP Finals victory over Taylor Fritz, which capped a dominant season. Having won both the Australian Open and U.S. Open earlier in the year, Sinner secured the year-end No. 1 ranking. His victory in Turin extended his winning streak to 26 out of 27 matches and brought his season tally to eight titles and a remarkable 70-6 record. Sinner expressed satisfaction with his progress but emphasized his drive to continue improving.
The ATP Finals win showcased Sinner’s tactical brilliance and consistency, as he defeated Fritz for the third time in recent months, including their U.S. Open final. Sinner swept all five of his matches in Turin without dropping a set, earning the largest prize money in men’s tennis history at $4.8 million. He became the first Italian to win the ATP Finals and achieved the feat in dominant fashion, a standard last set by Ivan Lendl in 1986. Sinner highlighted his strategic adaptability as a key to his success in the tournament.
Fans in the Inalpi Arena created a vibrant atmosphere with their orange-themed attire, celebrating Sinner’s distinctive hair color and quirky carrot-eating moment from a past match. The home crowd’s energy peaked as Sinner delivered decisive moments, including a break for a 4-3 lead in the first set and an ace to close it out. Another early break in the second set solidified his control over the match, with his powerful and precise serving proving too much for Fritz to handle.
Despite his loss, Fritz found some positives, reaching a career-high ranking of No. 4, the highest for an American man since Andy Roddick in 2007. His performance this year has marked a steady progression, highlighted by his U.S. Open runner-up finish and semifinal victory over Alexander Zverev in Turin. Fritz acknowledged Sinner’s dominance, especially his serving, and expressed confidence in his own game as he continues to improve. Both players demonstrated the bright future of men’s tennis with their achievements this season.
