Jannik Sinner begins title defence with superb victory in Montreal

Jannik Sinner, who is competing for the first time in over three months, got off to a great start in his title defense on Thursday at the Canadian Open in Montreal.

The 22-year-old Italian Sinner, who currently has the top ranking in the world, defeated Croatian Borna Coric 6-2, 6-4 in his first singles encounter 30 days after reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals.

“I’ve been here for a little bit so I’m maybe a bit more used to the conditions, but still, I’m very happy about the performance,” Sinner said. “It was a very tough match. Even if you watched the score, it felt closer for sure. I had to save a break point in the second set and if he makes that one it could potentially change the match. It was a very good mindset today and I’ll try to keep going.”

Jannik Sinner missed the ongoing Paris Olympics due to tonsillitis was outstanding in his first game since winning the Miami Open crown in march.

“I’ve been here for a little bit so I’m maybe a bit more used to the conditions, but still, I’m very happy about the performance,” Sinner said. “It was a very tough match. Even if you watched the score, it felt closer for sure. I had to save a break point in the second set and if he makes that one it could potentially change the match. It was a very good mindset today and I’ll try to keep going.”

Sinner, a 14-time tour-level winner Sinner who is aiming for his fifth title of the season, will next face 15th seed Alejandro Tabilo in their first ATP meeting in the Round of 16.

The Canadian-born Chilean who in Rome stunned Novak Djokovic for his first win against a World No. 1. defeated Lorenzo Sonego 6-4, 6-2 in the second round.