World number one Jannik Sinner secured his first grass-court title by defeating Hubert Hurkacz in the Halle Open final on Sunday.
The 22-year-old Italian triumphed in a closely contested match, requiring two tiebreakers to overcome his Polish opponent with scores of 7-6 (8), 7-6 (2).
“I knew I had to serve really well and you play only a couple of really important points throughout the whole set,” Sinner remarked. “I'm very happy about this tournament because (winning) the first time on grass court, it's a good feeling.”
This victory boosts Sinner’s remarkable record to 38-3 this year, following his Australian Open win in January and a French Open semifinal appearance in June.
Hurkacz, ranked ninth in the world, previously won Halle in 2022, marking his only other grass-court final appearance.
“It's inspiring what you've been doing the last 12 months,” Hurkacz told Sinner. “Jannik becoming number one in the world is really special. I try to learn from that. Big congrats.”
Both players are set to compete in the upcoming Wimbledon Championships starting July 1. Last year, Sinner advanced to the semifinals at the All England Club, while Hurkacz reached the final four in 2021.
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Sinner beats Hurkacz in Halle to win his first grass-court title
cgtn.com
