MIAMI: Jannik Sinner is edging closer to a historic milestone, continuing his imperious run by defeating Alexander Zverev to reach the final of the Miami Open.
The World No. 2 delivered a composed 6-3, 7-6(4) victory in Friday’s semi-final, extending his remarkable streak to 32 consecutive sets won at ATP Masters 1000 events. Fresh off his maiden Indian Wells title, Sinner is now just one win away from completing the coveted ‘Sunshine Double’—a feat last achieved by Roger Federer in 2017.
This latest triumph marks Sinner’s seventh consecutive win over Zverev, underlining his growing dominance in the matchup. The Italian now leads their head-to-head record 8-4, including two victories in 2026 alone.
Despite the straight-sets scoreline, the contest was far from routine.
- Sinner saved an early break point before seizing control with aggressive baseline play
- He broke Zverev to take a 3-1 lead in the opening set
- The second set saw Zverev raise his level, pushing the match into a tense tie-break
At 5-4 in the tie-break, a mistimed overhead from Zverev shifted momentum decisively, allowing Sinner to close out the match with authority.
Sinner’s serve proved to be the defining weapon:
- 79% first-serve points won (45/57)
- 15 aces, compared to Zverev’s five
- Saved both break points he faced
More than just numbers, it was his composure in decisive moments that stood out. “It was a tough encounter… I served very well in the crucial moments,” Sinner said after the match. Awaiting Sinner in Sunday’s final is Jiri Lehecka, who cruised past Arthur Fils 6-2, 6-2 to reach his first-ever Masters 1000 final.
Sinner holds a 3-0 head-to-head advantage over Lehecka, including a straight-sets win at Roland Garros last year—making him the clear favourite heading into the title clash. A title win in Miami would significantly boost Sinner’s position in the rankings, bringing him within striking distance of World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz.
Meanwhile, despite the loss, Zverev’s semi-final run ensures a rankings boost, with the German set to climb back to World No. 3, overtaking Novak Djokovic.
Sinner’s form right now signals more than just a title push—it reflects a player entering peak dominance. With consistency, composure, and firepower on his side, the Italian is now one step away from etching his name alongside the greats of the game.
Sunday’s final could mark the beginning of a new era.
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