Sinner Battles Past Shapovalov to Reach U.S. Open Fourth Round

By Eppe Fraqnklyne

• World No. 1 extends hardcourt Grand Slam winning streak to 24 matches
• Defending champion rallies after dropping opening set
• Sets up last-16 clash with Tommy Paul or Alexander Bublik

Jannik Sinner kept his U.S. Open title defense alive on Saturday, overcoming a spirited challenge from Denis Shapovalov to claim a 5-7, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 24-year-old Italian, winner of back-to-back Australian Open crowns and last year’s Flushing Meadows trophy, has not lost a hardcourt major match since 2023. His latest triumph stretched his unbeaten run on the surface at Grand Slams to 24 matches.

Sinner stumbled early, conceding the first set after a string of double faults, but responded with trademark composure. He controlled the baseline rallies, turned defense into attack, and strung together six consecutive games in the third set to seize the momentum.

“Very tough match today. I know Denis a long time … I knew I had to play at a very high level,” Sinner said afterward. “Week two is completely different. It’s a great sign that I’m still here. Let’s see what’s coming.”

The defending champion now awaits the winner of Tommy Paul vs. Alexander Bublik as the tournament enters its decisive second week.