Jannik Sinner produced a commanding performance en route to the Six Kings Slam title defense in Riyadh. The Italian bested Stefanos Tsitsipas and Novak Djokovic in straight sets to arrange the title clash against world no. 1, Carlos Alcaraz.
In the repeat of last year's final, Jannik ousted Carlos 6-2, 6-4 in 73 minutes to earn a goldenracket and $6 million in prize money. The San Candido's performance earned Fabrice Santoro's praise and admiration.
The former French star describedSinner's performance as one of the most dazzling sequences of performances seen in recent months. For Santoro, a commandingvictory over Alcaraz could become a turning point in their evolving rivalry.
The Spaniard has had the advantage over the Italian in their recent duels, including four victories in five ATP finals since May. However, it was all about Jannik in their Riyadh encounter.
Sinner's serve worked like a charm, providing many service winners and allowing him to avoid break points. Carlos stood miles behind that pace. The Spaniard played against ten break points and suffered three breaks to finish as runner-up.
Although the event was not part of the official ATP calendar, Santoro believes the confidence and clarity Jannik displayed will serve him well in future meetings with his greatest rival.
The 24-year-old's poise, precision and relentless controlled aggression throughout the weekend in Riyadh reaffirmed his status as one of the game's most complete competitors.
The Italian lifted a beautiful trophy and strengthened his psychological edge heading into another season of high-stakes clashes with Carlos Alcaraz.
Their next duel could come at the Paris Masters or the ATP Finals in November.
"We were talking about Carlos' seven wins in his last eight matches against Jannik. However, there was no contest between them on Saturday. It was not an official match, but it could serve the Italian in his future meetings against the Spaniard in the months and years to come.
Jannik was dazzling. He wept aside Stefanos Tsitsipas, Novak Djokovic and world no. 1," Fabrice Santoro said.
