Top- Ranked Player Jannik Sinner Readies for US Open after Triumph at Cincinnati Open
The Italian confessed that he was drained after a strenuous tournament, but somehow managed to defeat his American opponent in the final with a 7-6(4) 6-2 victory in straight sets.
"It was a pretty tough week, quite challenging," he commented post-match.
"It was mentally tough. I've had a fantastic run here, and I tried my best today. Both of us were quite exhausted from yesterday. We both felt quite tense, but I'm pleased with the level I played today, especially in the crucial moments."
Sinner seemed to be affected by a hip issue at times during the Cincinnati tournament yet managed to clinch his fifth title of the year.
He battled through tough matches against Rublev in the quarters and Zverev in the semis to face Tiafoe – who had come back from a set down against Rune in the semis.
In the final, it was Sinner's powerful groundstrokes that made the difference, as his strength and precision were too much for Tiafoe to handle.
Following his win in the tiebreak, the 23-year-old Italian easily sailed through the second set to be crowned the youngest male champion at the tournament since Murray in 2008.
US Open preparation
This victory will fuel new confidence in Sinner's game as he heads to New York for the US Open, where he aims to claim his second major title.
The final grand slam of the year kicks off on Monday.
"I'm delighted to be in this strong position and just maintaining my mental strength, keeping that drive to keep competing, and hopefully, I can produce some solid tennis in New York as well," Sinner added.
For Tiafoe, reaching the Cincinnati Open final signified an improvement in his form during a season where he's confessed to struggling with performances.
"I've been having a tough time for a long time, so this week actually means a lot to me," he said after the match.
"Sinner's victory over Tiafoe in the final was a testament to his resilience in tennis, especially considering the physical toll of the tournament."
"Despite the physical exhaustion, Sinner looked forward to using his triumph as motivation for the upcoming US Open, where he hopes to continue his success in major tournaments, just like Rafael Nadal did with his win in 2008."
