Djokovic 4-6, 3-2* Sinner
Sinner can only (accidentally, of course) redirect a Djokovic serve out wide into the crowd, where it’s caught by a smiling lady who throws it back to the ballboy.
Sinner holds up a hand in apology. The next Djokovic first serve is inches wide, again, and he’s not happy about it, questioning his bad luck. The last time that happened, Sinner took the advantage.
True to form, the Italian attacks the second serve, and Djokovic hits a few shots where he seems off balance, falling backwards after netting, perhaps from the strength of the Sinner spin. 15-30.
He goes long now, 15-40, and chunters to his box in obvious dissatisfaction. Two more break points to the top seed. One gone as Sinner overhits a crosscourt forehand, and another gone. Deuce and Djokovic sucks in air between points.
A lovely backhand into the corner, Sinner recovers, but Djokovic steps forward and sends a winner whistling beyond Sinner for advantage. His body shape disguised his intentions there until the very last moment, fooling Sinner into shifting his weight to his right.
Wow, Sinner with one of the shots of the match, a vicious crosscourt backhand which Djokovic gets nowhere near. Deuce again, then ad-Djokovic as he whips a wonderful winner into the corner.
Both players have noticeably stepped up their level here. Sinner long and Djokovic takes the game. Claps from the crowd.
