Italy’s Jannik Sinner (AP Photo)
Jannik Sinner continued his relentless rise on Thursday, defeating Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4 to reach the semi-finals of the Italian Open and break a long-standing record previously held by Novak Djokovic.The world No. 1’s latest straight-sets win in Rome marked his 32nd consecutive victory in ATP Masters 1000 tournaments, eclipsing Djokovic’s record of 31 set during his dominant 2011 season. It is the latest sign that Sinner has become the man to beat on tour heading into the clay-court majors.Record falls as Sinner powers onSinner barely looked troubled against Rublev, who became his first seeded opponent of the tournament. The Italian broke serve in the opening game of both sets and never allowed the Russian to settle.Rublev struggled with the windy conditions at the Foro Italico and committed 28 unforced errors, while Sinner showed his trademark calm under pressure. One exquisite cross-court drop shot in the second set underlined his control as he moved into the final four.“I don’t play for records, I play just for my own story,” Sinner said after the match. “At the same time, it means a lot to me, but tomorrow is another day, another opponent.”The 24-year-old also admitted conditions were far from ideal. “I felt like we both didn’t play at our best today, but the conditions here are very tough. I tried to adapt in the best possible way.”Rome title now within reachWith Carlos Alcaraz sidelined through injury, Sinner has emerged as the overwhelming favourite to win the Rome crown and become the first Italian in five decades to lift the title.He is expected to face Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals, provided the 2023 champion overcomes Martin Landaluce.The run has only increased expectations ahead of the French Open, where Sinner could challenge for a first Roland Garros title and move closer to a career Grand Slam.
