Can Sinner Overcome Djokovic to Face Alcaraz in French Open Final?

Paris, June 7 (NationPress) Jannik Sinner, currently ranked as the world's top player, achieved a remarkable victory with a score of 6-4, 7-5, 7-6(3) against the legendary Novak Djokovic, a three-time champion, during a thrilling semifinal at the French Open on Friday. This victory sets up a final showdown against the reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Djokovic, who holds the record with 24 Grand Slam titles, found himself challenged by Sinner’s powerful baseline play and precise serving on Court Philippe-Chatrier, as reported by Xinhua.

Sinner marks a significant milestone, becoming only the second Italian man to reach the final at Roland-Garros, following in the footsteps of 1976 champion Adriano Panatta.

"This match was incredibly special for me, competing against Novak in a Grand Slam semifinal," Sinner expressed. "It’s just unbelievable, and I had to elevate my game to the highest level. I’m thrilled with how I managed the pressure, and it’s a testament to Novak’s influence as a role model for all players, particularly the younger ones."

"His achievements are extraordinary, and I wish him all the best for the remainder of the season. We are fortunate to witness his exceptional level of tennis; it’s truly remarkable," he added.

In the opening set, Sinner displayed steadiness, capturing it 6-4 with a break in the fifth game.

Djokovic came out strong in the second set, but Sinner struck first with a break to lead 5-3. Djokovic held serve in the ninth game but later broke Sinner while he was serving for the set, leveling the score at 5-5. However, Sinner regained composure, broke Djokovic again, and took the second set 7-5.

Both competitors showcased elite tennis in the third set, leading to a tense tiebreak where Sinner triumphed 7-3.

In the post-match press conference, the 38-year-old Djokovic reflected on the uncertainty surrounding his future following the defeat.

"This could potentially be my last match here, which made me more emotional at the end," Djokovic stated. "If this was my farewell to Roland Garros, it was a beautiful match characterized by an incredible atmosphere and the crowd's support."

"Do I want to continue? Absolutely. But will I return here in 12 months? That remains uncertain," he added.

Earlier in the other semifinal, Alcaraz was leading 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-0, 2-0 against Lorenzo Musetti when the eighth-seeded Italian had to retire due to a leg injury.

Sinner, who has not lost a single set in the tournament, aims to avenge last year’s semifinal loss to Alcaraz, where he was defeated in five sets.

Alcaraz has won their last four encounters, including the Italian Open final in May after Sinner's return from a three-month doping ban.

"Sunday will be a tough challenge; I know my recent head-to-head record against Carlos is not in my favor, but I’m eager to see what I can achieve," Sinner remarked.