World No. 1 Jannik Sinner showcased his grit and determination in a thrilling comeback victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry at the Rolex Shanghai Masters on Sunday.
In a hard-fought contest lasting two hours and 39 minutes, the Italian defeated Tomas 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-2 to book his place in the fourth round. Sinner, chasing his seventh title in 2024, had to battle through a series of challenges posed by the Argentine World No. 37. The win also marked Sinner’s second victory over Etcheverry in their ATP Head2Head matchups.
“It was a very tough match, physically and mentally, so I am very happy to get through this one,” Sinner said after the win. Reflecting on the first set, he added, “I had my chances, but sometimes you have to wait for the right moment. Staying calm mentally was the key today.”
The match began with both players showcasing their skill and determination, exchanging blows in the first set. Etcheverry, who displayed composure under pressure, saved two set points to push the set to a tie-breaker, where he capitalized on his opportunities. A delicate drop volley helped him secure three set points, and he converted the first, clinching the opening set 7-6(3).
Sinner, however, responded in the second set with increased intensity. Despite a brief exchange of breaks in the middle of the set, the Italian remained focused and took control, leveling the match at one set all.
In the final set, Etcheverry managed to stave off early pressure by saving three break points in the first game, but Sinner’s relentless play eventually broke through. After a crucial break in the third game, Sinner maintained his momentum, fending off further break points before securing the win.
Sinner will now face either Roberto Carballes Baena or Ben Shelton in the next round. Should Shelton advance, it would set up a rematch of last year’s Shanghai Masters fourth-round clash, where the American emerged victorious in a deciding-set tie-break.
The Italian star, who recently notched his 250th tour-level win, is eyeing his seventh title this year. He’ll be hoping to build on his strong form after falling short to Carlos Alcaraz in last week’s China Open final. With this victory, Sinner continues his impressive 2024 campaign as he marches toward the Shanghai Masters title.