After withdrawing from the Cincinnati Masters due to physical issues, Sinner returned to the court in top form at the US Open. He dropped only four games in the match, all on return. The top seed capitalized on seven of 10 break points, securing the victory in 98 minutes.

"I'm feeling good physically," Sinner said after the match. "My last two practice sessions helped a lot. I'm really happy with my current form."

Sinner hits a backhand in the first round of the US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York, on 26/8. _Photo: Reuters_

Sinner extended his winning streak on hard courts at Grand Slams to 22 matches, approaching John McEnroe's record of 25. He has won three hard-court Grand Slam titles: the Australian Open in 2024 and 2025, and the US Open last year.

In the second round, Sinner will face Alexei Popyrin, who defeated Emil Ruusuvuori 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3). Popyrin notably upset Novak Djokovic in the third round last year. The Australian also defeated Sinner in their only previous encounter, which took place on clay at the Madrid Masters in 2021.

Sinner needs to reach at least the third round to maintain his hopes of retaining the world number one ranking after the tournament. He also needs Carlos Alcaraz not to advance further than him to stay atop the ATP rankings.

When asked about his rival's new buzz cut, Sinner commented, "The new haircut suits Alcaraz." The last time the two players met at the US Open was in 2022, when Alcaraz saved match points to win a five-set quarterfinal thriller. Alcaraz will play his second-round match against Mattia Bellucci at 6:00 a.m. on 28/8 (Hanoi time).

Vy Anh