Jannik Sinner made history with his dominant victory over Richard Gasquet at the French Open, according to a report by TalkSPORT. The world number one dispatched his veteran opponent 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 to reach the third round of the tournament in straight sets.
The victory also marked the end of Gasquet’s illustrious career, with the Frenchman set to retire after the tournament. The 38-year-old, a former world number seven, has won 16 titles in his career and was praised by Sinner for his achievements. “We have a good relationship off the court,” Sinner said during his on-court interview, as quoted by TalkSPORT. “We are different generations, but it’s your moment. Congrats to your family, to your team. Without great people around each player, it’s impossible to make such an incredible career.”
Sinner’s win also extended his impressive record against opponents playing in their home Grand Slam. The 23-year-old has now won 18 out of 18 matches against players competing in their home Slam, a feat that no male player has achieved in the Open Era, TalkSPORT reported. Additionally, Sinner has now won 16 consecutive men’s singles matches at Grand Slam events, with his current winning run stretching back to a quarter-final defeat to Daniil Medvedev at Wimbledon last summer.
The Italian’s impressive form has seen him win both the US Open and Australian Open before his current campaign at Roland Garros, according to TalkSPORT. At 23 years and 282 days, Sinner is the youngest player to win 16 matches in a row since Rafael Nadal in 2008. If he makes the last four in Paris next week, he will equal Nadal’s record, and can break the record outright by reaching the final on June 8.
Sinner’s current career-best performance at the French Open was a run to the semi-finals last year, TalkSPORT stated. The top seed will be back in action on Saturday against Jiri Lehecka of the Czech Republic, with a clash with either Andrey Rublev or Arthur Fils awaiting the winner in the last 16.
The victory over Gasquet was a testament to Sinner’s skill and determination, TalkSPORT noted. As the world number one, Sinner will look to continue his impressive form and make a deep run at the tournament. With his current level of play, he will undoubtedly be one to watch in the coming days.
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