Jannik Sinner delivered a commanding performance at the China Open on Thursday, sweeping aside former US Open champion Marin Cilic.
The 24-year-old Italian, currently ranked world number two and a four-time Grand Slam winner, faced little resistance from Cilic, who has endured a difficult stretch of form.
At 36, the Croatian entered the contest on a winless run dating back to his appearance in the last 16 at Wimbledon, and his struggles were once again laid bare.
The opening set began on even terms, with both players holding serve until Sinner broke for a 3-2 lead. The Italian then surged through the next two games without dropping a point, quickly establishing control before closing the set comfortably.
Cilic, now ranked 97th in the world, attempted to rally in the second set but was broken early at 2-1. From there, Sinner’s relentless pressure proved decisive, as he extended his advantage to 5-1. Moments later, the match ended routinely, with Cilic netting a return on the final point.
For Sinner, the win reinforces his status as one of the sport’s dominant forces, with a blend of power and precision that Cilic could not match.
The Italian will now prepare for his next challenge against French qualifier Terence Atmane, who awaits him in the upcoming round.
