Jannik Sinner clinched his second Grand Slam title of 2024 on Sunday, decisively defeating Taylor Fritz in the US Open final and ending a 21-year drought for American men at the majors.
Sinner, the world number one, who previously won his first Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January, became the first Italian man to win in New York with a score of 6-3, 6-4, 7-5. This victory marked his 55th match win of the season and his sixth title.
The 23-year-old Sinner’s win solidifies his position alongside Carlos Alcaraz, who has won the French Open and Wimbledon this year. Fritz, ranked 12th, was aiming to become the first American man to win a major since Andy Roddick in 2003. He was supported by a star-studded crowd, including Taylor Swift, NFL star Travis Kelce, and actor Matthew McConaughey.
Sinner quickly took a 2-0 lead in the first set before Fritz equalized. Despite saving a break point during a long rally, Fritz fell behind and Sinner secured the set with a third break. The second set saw both players hold serve until Sinner capitalized on his opportunities to win it.
In the third set, Fritz had multiple chances but could not convert. Sinner broke back when Fritz served for the set, eventually earning two championship points. He sealed his victory when Fritz’s return went into the net.
Sinner reflected on the challenge of the tournament and the growth he experienced, celebrating with his team amid cheers. Fritz, addressing the crowd during the presentation ceremony with US tennis legend Andre Agassi, expressed regret for not securing the win but vowed to keep striving for future success.
