Jannik Sinner, the top-ranked tennis player in the world, defeated American phenom Taylor Fritz handily to win the US Open and earn his second Grand Slam championship in 2024.
The Italian wonder prevailed in a very emotional Sunday final in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5. Sinner, realizing how little time he still had left with his gravely ill aunt, tearfully dedicated his victory to her after winning.
After revealing that his aunt is suffering from severe illness, a distraught Jannik Sinner dedicated his US Open title win on Sunday to her, saying, “I don’t know how much longer I will have her in my life.” The 23-year-old world number one Sinner defeated Taylor Fritz 6-3, 6-4, 7-5 to win his second Grand Slam title of the year.
After fighting back tears on the trophy platform. “I love tennis, I practice a lot for these stages but I realise that there is also a life away from the tennis courts and I would like to dedicate this to my aunt who is not feeling well,” said Sinner.
“I’m not sure how much longer I will be with her. I’m glad I still get to spend these times with her. She still holds a special place in my heart. “If there was a wish I could make I would wish good health on everyone but unfortunately it’s not possible.”
After it was discovered that Sinner had failed two drug tests but escaped punishment, he arrived in New York under clouded circumstances.
Sinner was exonerated of all charges, but other teammates expressed doubts about the ruling, speculating that because of his prominent position in the game, Sinner might have benefited from special treatment.
“The last phase of my career was challenging, which is why this title means so much to me. Thank you to everyone who has supported me daily, including my team,” Sinner stated.
“I’m glad and honored to be with my team right now. Since I began playing well in Australia this season, I’ve had a lot of important victories that have given me confidence for the time being.”
“The work never stops,” he continued. I’m sure I can still get better, but you have to start with appreciating what you already have and work for the rest.”
Sinner’s victory dashed American dreams of having their first male major league champion at home in twenty-one years.
In 2003, Andy Roddick became the final American to win a Grand Slam title in New York. Fritz, who became the first American to compete in a Slam final since Roddick at Wimbledon in 2009, expressed his resolve to recover and win a major.
“First of all, congratulations to Jannik on a fantastic match; it has been an incredible two weeks. It is just amazing. The world number twelve remarked, “He was too good. “Experiencing the love all week long at the US Open as an American is just amazing.
“I know we have been waiting for a champion for a long time so I’m sorry I couldn’t get it done this time but I’m going to keep working and hopefully I’ll get it done next time so thank you.”
Also Read: Taylor Fritz Feels He “Let a Lot of People Down” After US Open 2024 Final Defeat