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Jannik Sinner US Open ATP 2021
ATP Tennis Players, Tennis News

Jannik Sinner downs Gael Monfils to retain Sofia title and boost ATP Finals bid


Jannik Sinner overcame Gael Monfils to continue his remarkable form at the Sofia Open as the Italian star retained his 2020 crown. 

The 20-year-old, who is now 9-0 at the event, beat the Frenchman 6-3 6-4 to defend his Bulgarian trophy and boost his chances for a spot in the ATP Finals.

The top seed was dominant behind his first serve winning a remarkable 93% of points and gave Monfils just two attempts to break in the 79-minute contest.

“The level was high today,” Sinner said in his on-court interview.

“We had long, long rallies and it was physical as well. I am happy to be the winner here in Sofia again. I think it is a very nice tournament. It was the best match [I have played this week] because I had to.”

After retaining his title in Sofia, Sinner has risen to 10th in the Race to Turin rankings as he bids to be one of the eight players to qualify for the season finale.

The 20-year-old, who improves his head-to-head record against Monfils to 3-1 in the Italian’s favour, was quick to praise the Frenchman.

“It is never easy playing against Gael, we’ve had many tough matches,” Sinner added. “I think in the crucial moments I was a bit luckier than him, which helped me a lot.”

The Italian’s latest victory moves him on to three tour-level titles in 2021 after tasting success at the Great Ocean Road Open before his most impressive win to date at the ATP 500 Citi Open event.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.