ATP Tour

Watch how Sinner defeated Popyrin in Rome, for the loss of just 2 games

Jannik Sinner delivered another dominant display on home clay Monday at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome, where he cruised past Alexei Popyrin to book his place in the fourth round of the ATP Masters 1000 event.

ATPTour.com looks back at the standout moments from the match through video highlights…

Sinner wasted no time taking control, breaking serve in the opening game as he pushed Popyrin all around the court with his trademark depth and precision. One of the early highlights came when the Italian combined a delicate drop shot with a smooth volley to earn another break opportunity.

Popyrin faced a similar situation in the ensuing point, but this time the Australian responded brilliantly, producing a sharp passing shot to save break point. He eventually held serve, staying within one break during the opening set.

The No. 1 player in the PIF ATP Rankings, Sinner continued to electrify the crowd throughout the first set. He produced another moment of magic while serving at 2-1, when he ripped an outrageous backhand angle winner that even drew applause from Popyrin across the net.

Sinner’s evolving variety has become increasingly noticeable in recent months, especially on clay, where his use of drop shots has added another dangerous dimension to his game. Against Popyrin, that tactical mix was on full display.

After taking the first set 6-2, Sinner completely shut the door, not conceding another game en route to a commanding 65-minute victory. With the victory, Sinner improved to a 3-1 lead in his Lexus ATP Head2Head series against Popyrin.

Sinner is this week aiming to become just the second player after Novak Djokovic to complete the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine Masters 1000 titles. He is also hoping to become the first Italian man since Adriano Panatta in 1976 to win the singles title in Rome. Next up for Sinner is countryman and World No. 155 Andrea Pellegrino.