Sinner defends ATP title to end year on ultimate high

Jannik Sinner got the better of his great rival Carlos Alcaraz to successfully defend his ATP Finals title.

- ELEANOR CROOKS

The Italian has not dropped a set in front of his home fans in Turin since the final in 2023 and that did not change here as he edged a 7-6(4), 7-5 success against Alcaraz, saving a set point in the opener. It was a sixth meeting this season between the two players who are dominating men's tennis, all in finals, and Sinner claimed only his second victory, adding to his success at Wimbledon.

The win is also a 31st in a row on indoor hard courts and sets the stage perfectly for 2026.

“Celebrating this trophy at the end of the year after such an intense last couple of months, there is not better ending for me to the season,” said Sinner on Sky Sports.

“It was a very, very tough and close match-up, set point in the first set, and I'm extremely happy how I handled the situation. It means the world to me.”

The match was paused for more than 10 minutes at deuce on Sinner's serve in the fourth game after a spectator in the crowd was taken ill.