Jannik Sinner arrives in Beijing determined to raise his level after the setback in New York. The Italian failed to defend the US Open crown, falling to Carlos Alcaraz in four sets.
World no. 2 is the favorite at the ATP 500 event in the Chinese capital, seeking his second title at this event after lifting a trophy in 2023 and losing a memorable final to Alcaraz a year ago.
Jannik is aware that his serve cost him dearly against the Spaniard at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The match exposed hisweakness behind the initial shot, and the four-time Major champion is eager to fix that!
His first delivery lacked the usual consistency, leaving him under constant pressure against such a strong opponent, who took the most of it. Now, in Beijing, Jannik is making the serve a central part of his preparation.
The Italian knows better than anyone that the margins at the top are very slim. Every percentage counts, and he seeks to develop more reliable and effective initial shot.
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It would provide him with easier points and relieve some of the physical demands during long exchanges. Beijing marks another opportunity to test adjustments before the Shanghai Masters and the closing stages of the season.
The serve will become even more critical during the indoor season, and Jannik wants to get ready for it! The 24-year-old has used the previous weeks to refine that weapon and close the gap to Alcaraz.
He also wants to maintain his position as one of the dominant forces in men's tennis and challenge his greatest rival the next time they meet, likely in the Shanghai Masters final!
Carlos will not challenge Jannik in Beijing, opting for Tokyo this year after a memorable weekend at the Laver Cup in San Francisco.
