Jannik Sinner is through to the last eight at the ATP 500 event in Beijing following a 6-4, 5-7, 6-0 victory over Terence Atmane. More than just a victory, the encounter served as another testing ground for the Italian's evolving game.
After falling short to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open final following a pale performance behind the initial shot, Sinner and his team have focused on introducing new elements to his arsenal.
World no. 2 did not play at his best in the opening two sets, offering his rival opportunities on the return, which was not the case in the first match against Marin Cilic. However, it's all part of the process for the four-time Major winner.
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The 24-year-old has been experimenting with tactical variety, including serve & volley and different shot patterns designed to break opponent's rhythm and make his game less predictable.
As Jannik admitted, not every attempt worked perfectly. However, the San Candido native understands that growth takes time and that implementing adjustments in real matches is a gradual process.
Thus, he is ready for errors while polishing his game in the upcoming months, hoping to remain competitive and challenge Carlos Alcaraz for the year-end no. 1 honor.
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Sinner's goal is crystal clear - becoming a more unpredictable player capable of adapting to any rival and using his weapons more efficiently, especially against his greatest rival.
Progress is already visible, as Jannik works on his confidence, court positioning and serve rhythm. The performance will vary, but the ultimate goal is within his sight.
With more matches ahead in Beijing and Shanghai, Sinner hopes the work invested now will bring lasting results in the crucial final stretch of the season and the beginning of 2026.
"Adding new things to your game is difficult, but I have tried. I went for a serve & volley a few times, which sometimes worked well and other times not. I need to hit the perfect shot to control that combo, and I often did not wait for the right moment.
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I'm trying to add new things, which should bring positive aspects in a few months. I want to win as many matches as possible, and being back in the quarter-final here in Beijing means a lot to me.
I eagerly look forward to my next match against Fabian Marozsan," Jannik Sinner said.
