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Jannik Sinner Roland Garros 2021

Jannik Sinner makes history to win first ATP 500 title in Washington


Jannik Sinner has made history at the Citi Open after becoming the youngest ever ATP 500 champion since the category was formed 12 years ago. 

The 19-year-old defeated the impressive American Mackenzie McDonald in a nail-biting three sets 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 to become the first teenager a trophy at the level.

The Italian star threw away a 5-2 lead in the decider, before eventually prevailing to win his third career title after Sofia in 2020 and Melbourne earlier this year.

“I think there is still much work to do, to be honest,” said the Washington titlist.

“A lot of experience to put in, working hard as we are doing now, and trying to play important matches and important moments of a match.

“Today I think I had a lot of them. I can learn many things [from] today.”

The Next Gen star also refused to place too much importance on his age when discussing his achievements in Washington this week.

“When you see somebody is the youngest or whatever, I don’t put much weight on that. There are a lot of players who have done much, much better than me,” Sinner said.

“It’s not about who is the youngest or whatever. I just want to improve, work hard.”


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.