Sinner books ATP Finals semi-final spot with win over Zverev

November 13, 2025 / 8:37 AM

Sharjah24: Italy’s Jannik Sinner, the world No.2 and defending champion, became the first player to qualify for the ATP Finals semi-finals after a commanding victory over Germany’s Alexander Zverev in Turin.

Sinner cruised past Zverev 6-4, 6-3 in the second round of the Björn Borg Group, marking his sixth win in ten career encounters with the German and his fifth consecutive victory against him — four of which occurred this season.

The 24-year-old took only 1 hour and 37 minutes to secure his second victory of the tournament, extending his impressive streak to 28 successive indoor hard-court wins.

“It was a very tough match, but I served extremely well,” Sinner said after the game. “Because I know Sasha so well, we had to adjust our tactical plan. Maybe the rallies weren’t long today, but I’m very happy with this win.”

Third consecutive ATP Finals semi-final

This marks Sinner’s third consecutive semi-final appearance at the season-ending championships. He previously reached the 2023 final, losing to Novak Djokovic, before winning the 2024 title without dropping a set.

Zverev, a two-time ATP Finals champion (2018, 2021), has not beaten Sinner since the 2023 US Open Round of 16.

Zverev faces decisive match; Auger-Aliassime stays alive

Zverev needed a straight-sets victory to secure early qualification but will now face a crucial match on Friday against Canada’s Félix Auger-Aliassime, who kept his hopes alive with a gritty comeback win.

Auger-Aliassime mounted a comeback to beat American Ben Shelton 4-6, 7-6 (9-7), 7-5 after 2 hours and 22 minutes, securing his first victory of the tournament following a loss to Sinner on Monday.

The Canadian must now beat Zverev in the final group stage match to join Sinner in the semi-finals.