Jannik Sinner continued to do Jannik Sinner things during his first grass-court match of 2024.
In action as the No. 1 player in the world for the first time in his career, Sinner battled to a 6-7(8), 6-3, 6-2 victory over Tallon Griekspoor at the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday afternoon. The 22-year-old Italian struck 15 aces compared to just two double-faults and saved all four of the break points he faced while advancing in two hours and 22 minutes.
Sinner’s best moment came in the form of a diving forehand passing shot to convert break point at 3-2 in the second set.
“I was running a bit from right to left,” the top seed reflected. “I just tried somehow to get to the ball and to make him play one more extra ball. He was under pressure, break point down. Somehow I made it.
“After that point, it gave me confidence, breaking him for the first time. In my mind I knew if I could do it once I could do it twice. I’m happy about that. He’s been an incredible player, especially serving really well. I’m happy with the performance.”
Sinner will face Fabian Marozsan in the Halle second round on Wednesday.
