Italy’s Jannik Sinner began his ATP Finals 2025 campaign with an emphatic victory over injury-struck Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, winning 7-5, 6-1 in a thrilling round-robin clash at Turin’s Inalpi Arena. The home crowd erupted as Sinner showcased his dominance, signaling strong intent to retain the prestigious year-end title.
This was the fourth meeting between the two players since August, including a clash just eight days prior, with Sinner emerging victorious once again. The win also extended the 24-year-old Italian’s indoor hardcourt winning streak to 27 matches, dating back to his last defeat against Novak Djokovic in the 2023 ATP Finals final.
Sinner vs Auger-Aliassime: Match Highlights
Sinner started the match aggressively, winning the opening game to love and conceding just three points on serve during the first set. His precise backhand and forehand down-the-line shots put constant pressure on the Canadian.
Despite hitting eight aces compared to Sinner’s single ace in the first set, Auger-Aliassime struggled to convert opportunities, saving four break points but ultimately succumbing at 7-5.
“It was a very tough match until 6-5. He played some very aggressive tennis, so I’m happy to overcome a very tough test today,” Sinner said. “Winning the first match is very important in this competition and this format.”
In the second set, Sinner surged to a 3-0 lead, forcing Auger-Aliassime to take a medical timeout due to a left calf issue. Sinner maintained his intensity, mixing deft drop shots with powerful baseline strokes to delight the home fans, eventually closing out the match with a decisive ace.
“I hope it’s nothing too serious,” Sinner added regarding Auger-Aliassime’s injury. “I wish him a speedy recovery and hope he is back to 100 percent physically.”
Implications for Year-End Rankings
Sinner is also competing with Carlos Alcaraz for the coveted year-end world number one ranking. Retaining his ATP Finals title is crucial for Sinner’s bid, while Alcaraz can clinch the top spot by winning two more matches following his opening victory.
In other Bjorn Borg Group action, Alexander Zverev defeated American Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6(6). The group stage will continue with all four players facing each other, with the top two advancing to the semifinals.
Upcoming Matches in the Jimmy Connors Group
Tuesday’s ATP Finals action features the Jimmy Connors Group, including:
- Carlos Alcaraz vs. last year’s finalist Taylor Fritz, both players currently on one win each.
- Lorenzo Musetti (Italy) vs. Alex de Minaur (Australia).
These matches will be crucial in determining the semifinal line-up and shaping the year-end championship outcome.
Sinner’s Legacy and Fan Support
The victory reinforced Sinner’s reputation as one of Italy’s brightest tennis talents. Playing on home soil, he fed off the crowd’s energy, demonstrating both technical skill and mental resilience. Fans are hopeful that Sinner’s form at the ATP Finals could see him capture his sixth title of the year and continue his meteoric rise in the men’s game.
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