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RIYADH: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner secured a significant victory over Novak Djokovic on the second day of the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, triumphing 6-2, 6-7, 6-4.
The closely contested match saw Sinner’s powerful play ultimately overwhelm the 24-time Grand Slam champion, who put up a determined fight despite visible physical setbacks.
Sinner took command early, cruising through the first set 6-2 as Djokovic struggled to keep up with the pace of the young Italian. The 36-year-old Serbian, known for his incredible resilience, found himself outplayed by Sinner’s aggressive baseline game and sharp groundstrokes.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Djokovic was unable to match Sinner’s energy and precision in the opening set.
However, Djokovic had promised earlier that he wasn’t ready to step aside for the younger generation just yet, saying, "I still believe I can compete at the highest level."
He made good on his words in the second set, digging deep to keep pace with the world’s top-ranked player. The crowd was treated to a thrilling back-and-forth as the two athletes exchanged games, tying at 2-2, 4-4, and ultimately forcing a tiebreak at 6-6. Djokovic, displaying the grit that has defined his career, surged to a 7-6 tiebreak win, leveling the match.
As the third set began, Djokovic called for medical attention for his shoulder, an injury that has troubled him throughout the year. The physical toll of the long season and his ongoing shoulder issues were evident in his serves, but he pressed on, determined to give Sinner a challenge.
With both players having a set in hand, the match remained tight, with Djokovic holding strong at 4-4.
Despite his determination, Djokovic, who has seen many of his contemporaries retire in recent years, was ultimately worn down by Sinner’s relentless play.
The Italian’s consistent pressure and powerful returns broke Djokovic’s serve late in the third set, allowing him to close out the match 6-4.
Djokovic’s effort highlighted his continued competitiveness, even as he battles injuries and the inevitable effects of age. His ability to push the world’s top-ranked player to three sets serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy. But the victory was Sinner’s, further cementing his place at the top of the sport and signaling a new era in tennis.
As the Six Kings Slam continues, all eyes will be on Sinner as he looks to build on this momentum, while Djokovic’s future remains a question as he navigates the physical demands of an increasingly younger field.