Jannik Sinner is the only man in the 2024 US Open semifinals with a Grand Slam title to his name, with Jack Draper and American opponents Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe all seeking their first major crown. While few pundits would pick against the Italian taking the title in New York, the reigning Australian Open champ is giving maximum respect to the challenging trio.
"Everyone, whoever is in quarters or semis or Round of 16, deserves to be there," Sinner said when asked what he makes of his status as tournament favorite. "No win is granted. You always have to find a solution against each opponent. I think that's what I try to do."
In the same answer, the Italian did acknowledge the advantage of having competed—and succeeded—in the money rounds at a major.
"Now, the matches are a bit different," he said. "I'm lucky that I played already with these kind of feelings, but let's see. It's going to be very interesting to see. I'm happy to be in this position trying to play some great tennis."
After defeating a familiar foe in Medvedev, 6-2, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4, Sinner will now face Draper, his friend and recent doubles partner. The 23-year-old said Draper, 22, is playing some of the best tennis of his life as he heaped praise on the rising British star.
"He serves great, hits the forehand great, backhand very solid. He's all around a very good player. He makes a lot of serve-and-volleys, tries to go to the net," Sinner began. "There are many things he's doing great... He's in the semis of a Grand Slam, so whoever reaches these kind of results, it's going to be a tough match.
"He's also moving great. All around, it's going to be a tough match for both of us, in any case. Also, mentally a lot. Semis, they are a bit different than first or second round, so let's see whoever handles this better. And I'm looking forward to it. I played against him in Queen's [Club] on grass some years ago, but it's nice to see our process, growing as a player and as a person, so it's good."
Sinner sounds ready for another tactical chess match, similar to the one he played against Medvedev. In that quarterfinal, Sinner was a scintillating 28-for-33 on net points, while Medvedev won 16 of 24 ventures forward.
"I think there were many keys today, tactically, and obviously starting with a break up in the first and third [set], it helps you a little bit with the confidence. That's what he has done in the second set," Sinner said of the topsy-turvy matchup.
"But, all things considered, I'm very, very happy, and let's see what I can do now in the semis."
