Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka made powerful statements at the Cincinnati Open, solidifying their positions as top contenders for the upcoming US Open. Sinner, the 23-year-old Italian sensation, dominated the men’s final, defeating home favorite Frances Tiafoe 7-6(4), 6-2. This victory not only marked his fifth title of the year but also underscored his ability to perform at the highest level despite recent health setbacks.
Sinner’s journey to the Cincinnati title was a testament to his resilience and determination. Having struggled with a hip issue and missing the Paris Olympics due to tonsillitis, his performance in Ohio was closely watched. The final against Tiafoe began with some uncertainty, as Sinner appeared error-prone and was visibly limping after several points in the tight first set. However, the Italian quickly found his rhythm, particularly during the tiebreak, where he absorbed Tiafoe’s powerful serve with precision. On set point, Tiafoe’s shot sailed long, giving Sinner the crucial first set.
The second set saw Sinner elevate his game further. Tiafoe, who has had a challenging season struggling to find consistent momentum, could not capitalize on three break point opportunities in the first set. This missed chance seemed to deflate the American, as Sinner swiftly took control, breaking Tiafoe early in the second set and racing to a 4-1 lead. Sinner’s forehand winner up the line was a highlight, showcasing his shot-making ability and leaving Tiafoe with little hope of a comeback. Sinner sealed the match with an unreturnable serve, proving that even when not at full health, he remains one of the most formidable players on the ATP Tour.
Sinner’s Cincinnati triumph is particularly significant as it comes ahead of the US Open, where he is expected to be one of the main challengers for the title. His ability to win even when not at 100% fitness is a crucial asset, especially in a field that includes defending champion Novak Djokovic and world number three Carlos Alcaraz. Sinner’s breakthrough earlier this year at the Australian Open, where he made a deep run, coupled with his Cincinnati victory, positions him as a serious contender at Flushing Meadows. His focus now shifts to recovery and preparation for the year’s final Grand Slam, where he aims to capitalize on his current form and challenge for the title.
On the women’s side, Aryna Sabalenka continued her dominance with a commanding victory over Jessica Pegula in the Cincinnati final. Sabalenka, who has been in exceptional form this season, captured the women’s title with a 6-3, 7-5 win, further solidifying her status as one of the top players on the WTA Tour. The Belarusian’s powerful serve and relentless groundstrokes were on full display throughout the tournament, and Pegula, despite being in good form after retaining her title in Toronto, struggled to keep pace.
Sabalenka’s performance in Cincinnati was nothing short of impressive. She dropped only nine points on serve throughout the match and hit 10 aces, showcasing her serving prowess. The match began with Sabalenka taking control early, breaking Pegula in the fourth game after the American sent a forehand into the net. Building on this momentum, Sabalenka held serve to love in the following game and closed out the first set with another unreturnable serve.
The second set saw Pegula put up more resistance, but Sabalenka’s aggressive play kept the pressure on. Pegula managed to break back in the tenth game, capitalizing on a rare lapse from Sabalenka, who committed a double fault and a pair of unforced errors. However, Sabalenka quickly regained her composure, breaking back immediately and forcing Pegula into an error on match point. With this victory, Sabalenka moves up to No. 2 in the rankings, entering the US Open as one of the clear favorites.
Sabalenka’s Cincinnati win is particularly noteworthy given her earlier struggles this season, including a shoulder injury that forced her to miss Wimbledon. Despite these challenges, she has bounced back impressively, not dropping a set throughout the Cincinnati tournament, including in her match against world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka’s powerful game and mental toughness make her a formidable opponent, and she will be out for revenge at the US Open after finishing as the runner-up last year.
Both Sinner and Sabalenka’s victories in Cincinnati have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting US Open. Sinner’s ability to win under pressure and Sabalenka’s dominant form suggest that they will be key players to watch in New York. As the tennis world turns its attention to Flushing Meadows, the performances of these two stars in Cincinnati have made it clear that they are ready to challenge for the biggest titles in the sport. Whether they can carry this momentum into the US Open remains to be seen, but their Cincinnati triumphs have undoubtedly made them the players to beat.
