Sinner overcomes Auger-Aliassime; sets stage for Alcaraz clash in US Open final

NEW YORK: Defending champion Jannik Sinner battled past Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime in four sets on Friday to reach the US Open final, where he will renew his rivalry with Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

Top seed Sinner, who has dominated the Grand Slam season, needed nearly three hours to subdue the 25th seed 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The victory secured him a place in all four major finals this year, a feat achieved previously only by Rod Laver, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

“It’s been an amazing season,” Sinner said. “The Grand Slams are the most important tournaments we have and to be in another final, especially here in New York with this crowd, it doesn’t get any better.”

The Italian started strongly, breaking early to take control of the opening set, which he wrapped up with ease as Auger-Aliassime faltered on his backhand. The Canadian, playing in his second semi-final at Flushing Meadows, regrouped in the second set. With improved serving and fearless shot-making, he broke Sinner for a 5-3 lead before levelling the match.

Momentum swung again in the third set as Sinner, who had taken a medical timeout earlier in the contest, rediscovered his rhythm. Strong baseline play and clutch serving enabled him to reclaim the advantage. Auger-Aliassime, who had defeated Sinner in Cincinnati last month, pushed hard in the fourth set but could not find a breakthrough as the world number one closed out the match.

Sinner praised his opponent’s performance and resilience. “Felix was playing much better than the last time we met,” he said. “I noticed he might have had some injury issues, so I hope it’s nothing serious. He’s an amazing player and person, and it’s always a pleasure to share the court with him.”

The win sets up a blockbuster final against Alcaraz, who earlier defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in straight sets. The Spaniard and Italian will now meet in their third successive major final of the year. Alcaraz beat Sinner at Roland Garros in June before the Italian struck back at Wimbledon in July.

Sinner reflected on the significance of their rivalry in New York, where they first met in a memorable five-set quarter-final in 2022. “I feel our rivalry started here,” he said. “We’re both different players now, with different confidence. We know each other well, and it’s always an amazing battle. I’m looking forward to doing it again on Sunday.”