Sinner was thrilled after his first victory over Djokovic.

Italian Jannik Sinner believes he played the best match of his career when he defeated Novak Djokovic in the Green Group of the ATP Finals.

"Beating the 24-time Grand Slam champion is clearly the best result I've ever had," Sinner said after defeating Djokovic for the first time on the ATP Tour on November 14th. The Italian player said it was a highly tactical match and he adapted well to secure the victory after three hours of play.

Winning against Djokovic 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-6(2), Sinner defeated Djokovic for the first time after five encounters. The Italian player leads the Green Group with 2 wins, 0 losses and has a good chance of advancing. He will meet Holger Rune in the final match at 3:00 AM on November 17th, Hanoi time. If Sinner wins against Rune or Djokovic fails to defeat Hubert Hurkacz 2-0 in the early match at 8:30 PM on November 16th, Sinner will advance to the semi-finals.

Sinner celebrates his victory over Djokovic in the second match of the Green Group at the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy on November 14. Photo: AP

The match against Djokovic showcased Sinner's consistency at the baseline. He often changed the tempo with drop shots that drew Djokovic to the net, followed by passing shots. "I felt confident in this match," the 22-year-old said. "I was brave in making decisions at crucial moments, especially in the third set. We both served well, played long rallies, and there weren't many opportunities to take the lead."

This season, the Italian player has won 59 matches – a record for an Italian player. He has also won 15 of his 16 indoor hard court matches, and for the second time defeated the current world number one. Sinner had previously done this at the Miami Masters in March, when he beat Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals.

Djokovic congratulated his younger opponent after the second round, admitting that he himself played less effectively in key areas. He said: "Sinner fully deserved it because he played brilliantly. He was courageous, full of energy and determination. I wasn't as decisive as him when faced with opportunities to make a difference. Anyway, we both put on a great match."

Despite the loss, Djokovic still has a chance to reach the semi-finals when he faces Hurkacz in the final round. The Polish player has lost all six previous encounters with Djokovic. In today's match at 8:30 PM on November 16th, Nole needs to win 2-0 to increase his chances of advancing. Even if he loses, Djokovic will still qualify if Sinner defeats Rune.

Vy Anh

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