Jannik Sinner is off to a strong start against Juan Manuel Cerundolo. He secured an early break in the second set. Sinner previously defeated Cerundolo at Wimbledon in 2023.
Sinner’s Strong Start
Sinner began the match by holding serve to zero. He then won the first game, showcasing a serve and volley and a drop shot. Sinner immediately found his rhythm from the baseline, creating three break points. Cerundolo saved two with his serves, but Sinner capitalised on the third when Cerundolo’s first serve failed to land.
Sinner consolidated his advantage by holding serve to 30, displaying a good point at the net. He varied his trajectories while serving and battled in the long rallies, leading to a 5-2 lead.
Serving for the set, Sinner raced to a 40-0 lead. He then closed out the set on his second set point.
Cerundolo’s Efforts
Juan Manuel Cerundolo, currently ranked 56th in the world, held his initial service game in the second set. This gave him his first lead in the match. Cerundolo managed to hold serve, narrowing the gap.
Cerundolo capitalised on his first serves to comfortably win his service game. He is the younger brother of Francisco Cerundolo, who is ranked 26th.
Key Moments in the Second Set
At 30-all, Sinner hit a first serve at 201 km/h but then committed his first double fault, leading to deuce. Cerundolo then took control of a rally, earning the first break point of the match. Sinner saved the break point by winning a 17-shot rally with a backhand. He followed it up with an ace on his second serve and then won the game.
Sinner then broke Cerundolo early in the second set and held serve to consolidate his lead.
Coach Cahill Addresses Scheduling
Prior to the match, Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, dismissed concerns regarding the match’s midday scheduling. Cahill stated that they were aware of the timing after their first match. He added that it was not a problem for them.
Sinner and Cerundolo’s only previous encounter was at Wimbledon 2023, where Sinner won in straight sets. Sinner reached his first Wimbledon semi-final that year.