Jannik Sinner overcame a challenging test in Cincinnati's third round against the Canadian Gabriel Diallo. World no. 1 secured a 6-2, 7-6 victory in an hour and 52 minutes, defending a set point in the tie break and remaining on the title course.
Diallo forged an early advantage before losing ground in his games in the opener. He raised his level in the second set and pushed the world's best player to the limits before falling in the pivotal moments.
Jannik did not like how he served, landing in only 50% of the first serve and suffering one break. However, he found resilience and closed the match without having to play a decider.
This right here perfectly illustrates why Jannik Sinner is #1 in the world and is almost unbeatable on fast hard court…set point down against a big server and hits a return back at Diallo’s feet. Unreal footwork and execution by the Italian 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/LOdhRekfyk
— Tech Takes AI (@TechtakesAI) August 12, 2025
The experience of facing a strong server and handling pressure-filled situations provided valuable lessons for the defending champion, especially in his last test ahead of the US Open.
Sinner highlighted the need to sharpen his game ahead of the final Major of the season that could prove crucial in his battle for the year-end no. 1 with Carlos Alcaraz.
For the Italian, these tough encounters are essential for regaining rhythm and confidence. His performance was not flawless, but his ability to adapt and find solutions in difficult moments, like on a set point, proved crucial.
Jannik Sinner, Cincinnati 2025© Stream screenshot
"It was a tough match and a very difficult day in the office. Gabriel served unbelievably all the time, especially in the second set. When facing great servers, you always have to find a certain balance from the baseline, which can take time.
I had problems during different phases of the match today, but I'm happy with the outcome. This is what I was looking for – finding solutions in challenging situations.
It's necessary to go through these moments to regain automatisms and arrive in New York with pace and form. I did not play well all the time, but I still avoided a decider.
My serve could have worked better, but I'm happy to have pulled off such a difficult match and reach the next round," Jannik Sinner said.
