World No.2 Jannik Sinner bested Alexander Zverev by 6-2, 6-4 in the semifinal of the BNP Paribas Open on Saturday. The Italian was at his absolute best as he broke the German’s serve in the fifth game of the opening set.

From there on, it was just one-way traffic with Sinner dominating the show. With this win, Sinner qualified for the first Indian Wells final and he would look to carry his rich form.

The Italian was delighted with his level and was pleased after his comprehensive victory. Sinner now leads 7-4 in ATP H2H record against Zverev.

“It’s a great achievement. The first time here in the final, it means a lot to me,” said Sinner. “The third time that I’ve played the semis here, so I’m very happy about that… Now let’s see what’s coming. Of course, the next one will be a very tough test, but I’m extremely happy. We have improved this week, this tournament, and that for me was the most important part.

“It was a great performance from my side. Sascha didn’t play very well today I felt like. I broke him a couple of times in the first set, which gave me confidence to continue, and I served very well at important moments. I’m very happy.”

“It was a bit of a gameplan before the match, but it also depends on how I’m feeling,” said Sinner, when asked about the variety in return position he deployed to counter Zverev’s big serve. “I think that was the key today, trying to mix it up. Every match against him is very tough, a tough test, so I’m happy to face him. It’s a match I was looking forward to.”

Sinner will take on in-form Daniil Medvedev in the summit clash on Sunday.