Sinner reveals the challenges faced when changing his playing style

Jannik Sinner had to endure a tough match to secure his spot in the China Open quarterfinals.

Jannik Sinner went through a demanding match to reach the China Open quarterfinals. The world No. 2 overcame a significant challenge from Terence Atmane (France), requiring three sets to close the victory 6-4, 5-7, 6-0. For most of the match, Sinner was under constant pressure from his left-handed opponent, who played boldly and launched powerful attacks.

The match seemed to lean in Jannik Sinner’s favor after he won the first set 6-4, but Atmane fiercely fought back in the second set with aggressive play, forcing the Italian to make many errors and capitalizing on his chances. After the match, Sinner admitted that he had moments to finish early but failed to do so, turning what seemed like an easy match into a tense battle.

In the decisive third set, Sinner raised his level while Atmane couldn’t keep up with the pace. Sinner’s return game became sharper, his forehand more powerful, and he quickly secured a break to gain a psychological edge. From there, the 23-year-old dominated completely, winning the set 6-0 to demonstrate the difference in quality and consistency at the critical moment.

“It was a tough match, definitely,” Sinner said after the game. “I remembered our previous encounter in Cincinnati, so I had some expectations. I had chances to finish earlier but didn’t take them. These things happen sometimes. I noticed he had some cramping towards the end, but overall I’m happy to be in the quarterfinals.”

Entering the final set, all doubts quickly disappeared when Sinner broke serve in the very first game. His confidence soared, allowing him to march toward victory without dropping a single game. With controlled forehand rallies, effective returns, and composure, Sinner gave his opponent no chance to fight back.

“Anything can happen in the third set,” Sinner added. “But I felt good energy, broke the first service game, and that changed everything. After gaining a two-break lead, the match was under control.”

Despite the dominant final set win, Sinner showed respect for his opponent. “There aren’t many players like him on the tour,” he commented. “Atmane is left-handed, creative, and has improved a lot since we met in Cincinnati. Today he had some physical issues, but to have such a tough second-round match shows he’s a formidable opponent. Maybe his focus dropped in the third set, but that’s normal in sports; everyone goes through phases like that.”