Jannik Sinner has once again demonstrated his prowess on the court, battling through a challenging encounter to secure his place in the quarter-finals of the ATP 500 event in Beijing. The Italian star triumphed over Terence Atmane with a final score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-0, showcasing his resilience and skill as he continues his quest for the title.
In an electrifying match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Atmane, a fellow enthusiast of the Pokémon franchise, pushed the world’s No. 2 ranked player to his limits, particularly in the opening two sets. The Frenchman managed to snatch a late break in the second set, forcing a decisive third set that would ultimately prove to be a turning point. However, Sinner responded with an impressive display, delivering a decisive bagel to close out the match.
Post-match, Sinner heaped praise on Atmane, highlighting the Frenchman’s remarkable evolution as a player and calling him “unique.” The 2023 champion admitted to feeling a touch of nerves during the contest but ultimately emerged victorious, especially as Atmane struggled with physical issues as the match progressed.
This victory marks Sinner’s 13th consecutive appearance in a hard-court quarter-final, reinforcing his status as a formidable competitor in the sport. His performance against Atmane was particularly notable not only for the scoreline but also for the growth he has witnessed in his opponent since their last encounter in Cincinnati the previous month, where Atmane had kept the match competitive.
Sinner demonstrated his tactical acumen by breaking Atmane early in the match, securing a 3-1 lead while fending off break points in a tense game that showcased both players’ determination. The second set saw a flurry of breaks, with the players exchanging momentum before Atmane clawed back to level the score, but he was unable to sustain that energy in the final set.
The third set was a stark contrast, as Atmane struggled with cramps, failing to win a single game as Sinner capitalized on the opportunity to dominate. “There are not many players like Terence; that’s for sure. His style is unique, and he is also a lefty. He is a great player and has improved greatly since our Cincinnati duel,” Sinner acknowledged.
Reflecting on the match, Sinner noted the challenges he faced, admitting, “I could not bring the win home from a break up in the second set; it happens. I felt a bit nervous today, which is normal.” With his sights firmly set on the next round, Sinner expressed satisfaction with his performance, ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.
