Jannik Sinner defeated Daniil Medvedev with a score of 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 as their delayed semifinal match resumed on Saturday, setting the stage for an Italian Open final showdown with Casper Ruud. Sinner, currently ranked at the top, is on the brink of joining Novak Djokovic as the only man to conquer all nine Masters 1000 titles, with Djokovic having secured each tournament multiple times.
The match was halted with Sinner leading 4-2 in the third set on Friday and resumed on Saturday. Sinner swiftly closed out the match in just 15 minutes, clinching victory on his third match point after Medvedev defended two on his serve. Sinner commented on the unique challenge of resuming play after the delay, expressing satisfaction with his composure and return to the final.
In a previous match on Friday, Ruud overpowered Luciano Darderi with a decisive 6-1, 6-1 win on the red clay of the Foro Italico. The men’s final is scheduled for Sunday, where Sinner aims to become the first Italian man since 1976 to lift the Rome trophy, a feat last achieved by Adriano Panatta.
Sinner, who has emerged victorious in all four of his encounters with Ruud without dropping a set, is determined to make history. Ruud acknowledged the challenge of facing Sinner on his home turf and seeks to avenge his previous defeat. Sinner’s impressive winning streak includes five consecutive Masters titles and 28 straight victories, positioning him as a formidable force in the upcoming French Open.
Meanwhile, Elina Svitolina secured her third Italian Open title by defeating Coco Gauff in a hard-fought battle that lasted nearly three hours. Svitolina’s victory marked her first WTA 1000 title since her previous win in Rome in 2018, showcasing her resilience and determination. Gauff, aiming to make history as the first American winner in Rome since 2016, put up a strong fight but ultimately fell short against Svitolina’s consistent performance.
Svitolina expressed her delight at the triumph, emphasizing her coach’s role in motivating her to achieve this milestone. Gauff, despite the loss, reflected on the valuable lessons learned and the momentum gained heading into the upcoming French Open. Svitolina’s strategic play and unwavering focus enabled her to secure the title, highlighting her skill and experience on the court.