US Open 2025: Jannik Sinner Cruises into Third Round as Defending Champion

The 2025 US Open has already provided fans with drama, upsets, and high-quality tennis. Yet for defending champion Jannik Sinner, the early rounds have been all about composure and control.His performance reinforced why many experts and fans consider him one of the top favorites not only to reach the later stages but to retain the crown he lifted so memorably in 2024.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of Sinner’s third-round qualification, his performance on court, reactions from players and pundits, the historical significance of his run, and what lies ahead as the US Open gathers momentum.

Sinner’s Match Performance: Ruthless and Efficient

Sinner’s match in the second round was never in serious doubt. From the very first game, the Italian imposed his trademark baseline dominance, combining flat groundstrokes with blistering pace to keep his opponent on the defensive.

Serving Power: His first-serve percentage hovered above 70%, and he won the majority of points behind it.

Return Game: Perhaps the most notable aspect of Sinner’s performance was his return of serve. He broke his opponent multiple times, demonstrating precision and anticipation.

Control of Rallies: Unlike players who rely on sheer aggression, Sinner dictated rallies with patience, often waiting for the right moment to unleash a winner.

His efficiency meant that the entire match lasted just over two hours, conserving valuable energy for the grueling rounds to come.

Confidence of a Defending Champion

Winning a Grand Slam often brings added pressure, but Sinner has looked comfortable carrying the weight of expectation. His US Open 2024 triumph—where he defeated a series of top players to claim his maiden major title—was seen as the start of a new era in men’s tennis.

Mental Strength: When faced with break points, Sinner saved them with poise. This mental fortitude highlights why he has been so successful on hard courts.

Crowd Connection: New York crowds have warmed to his fighting spirit, applauding his shot-making and maturity despite his relatively young age.

Reactions from Analysts and Fans

Tennis experts were quick to praise Sinner’s form:

Former champions noted that his ability to combine consistent baseline hitting with intelligent variety is reminiscent of past greats.

Commentators described his performance as “textbook hard-court tennis,” highlighting his adaptability in mixing aggression with defense.

Fans on social media flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with admiration, calling him “the new face of men’s tennis” and suggesting he could be set for another deep run.

What This Means for the Tournament

Sinner’s progress to the third round strengthens the belief that he remains one of the tournament favorites. His potential quarterfinal and semifinal opponents include a mix of rising stars and established veterans, many of whom will be eager to end his reign.

Key implications:

Momentum Building: Winning in straight sets without expending unnecessary energy is crucial for success in best-of-five-set tournaments.

Psychological Edge: Opponents know they must raise their level significantly to trouble him.

Italian Tennis Legacy: With Sinner leading the way, Italian tennis continues to experience a golden era, with increasing attention and grassroots growth.

Historical Context: Defending the US Open Title

Successfully defending a US Open title has been a challenge even for tennis greats. Legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal have achieved the feat, but it requires both consistency and resilience.

For Sinner:

First Italian Defending Champion? If he manages to retain his crown, he will become the first Italian to successfully defend a Grand Slam singles title.

Symbol of Consistency: It would cement his reputation as not just a one-time winner but a sustained force in the sport.

ATP Rankings Impact: Progressing deep into the tournament will also help him maintain or even strengthen his position near the top of the ATP rankings.

Style of Play: Why Sinner Thrives on Hard Courts

The US Open’s hard courts suit Sinner’s game for several reasons:

Flat Hitting: His ability to strike flat and deep balls troubles opponents who prefer time to set up.

Movement: Quick footwork allows him to cover the court efficiently, even against aggressive shot-makers.

Adaptability: He can rally from the baseline but also finish points at the net when opportunities arise.

Physical Fitness: Matches at Flushing Meadows are often grueling, but Sinner’s conditioning has been excellent.

This style has drawn comparisons with a younger Novak Djokovic, though Sinner’s unique blend of Italian flair makes him stand out.

Rivalries to Watch

If Sinner is to lift the trophy again, he may need to overcome some big names:

Carlos Alcaraz: The Spaniard remains one of Sinner’s biggest rivals, with their head-to-head already producing classics.

Novak Djokovic (if competing): The veteran Serbian continues to be a measuring stick for every player.

Young Challengers: Players like Holger Rune, Ben Shelton, and Frances Tiafoe could pose threats with home support or fearless aggression.

Each matchup would test Sinner’s resilience and adaptability, ensuring fans remain glued to the action.

Italian Pride and Global Appeal

Sinner’s rise has had a significant impact beyond tennis courts:

In Italy: He has become a national hero, inspiring a new generation of players and increasing TV ratings for tennis matches.

Sponsors and Endorsements: Major brands continue to line up for partnerships, recognizing his international appeal.

Looking Ahead: Can Sinner Go All the Way?

As the defending champion, expectations are sky-high. The third round is just the beginning, and the road to another title will not be easy. Yet, his early performances suggest he is both mentally and physically ready to meet the challenge.

Key questions remain:

Can he maintain his consistency across two weeks of intense competition?

How will he handle the pressure if he faces tough five-setters later in the draw?

Will he be able to overcome rivals like Alcaraz in a potential blockbuster clash?

For now, Sinner’s ruthless efficiency makes him look every bit the champion that New York saw last year.

Conclusion

The US Open 2025 is shaping up to be another classic edition of tennis’s final Grand Slam of the year, and Jannik Sinner’s straight-sets victory in the second round to reach the third round has only heightened anticipation. With his trademark blend of powerful groundstrokes, mental strength, and growing confidence, he has shown why he is one of the brightest stars of his generation.

As the defending champion, Sinner is not just playing to win matches; he is playing to cement his place in tennis history. Fans around the world—and especially in New York—will be eagerly following every step of his journey. If his current form is any indication, the Italian might well be on course to lift the trophy once again at Flushing Meadows.

http://US Open 2025 Jannik Sinner third round result defending champion