World No.1 Jannik Sinner comprehensively bested his compatriot Luca Nardi in the Wimbledon opener at Centre One on Tuesday. The three-time Slam champion registered a comfortable 6-4, 6-3, 6-0 win, to advance in the tournament.
The 23-year-old was able to wrap up the game in one hour and 48 minutes as he dominated from the get-go. The top seed was able to convert five of 13 break points he created and didn’t give any chance to the opponent.
“I’m very happy to come back here. It’s such a special place for me,” said Sinner in his on-court interview. “Playing against an Italian is for us very unfortunate, but one has to go through, so I’m happy that it is me. The atmosphere as always is amazing, thanks so much. I know it’s very hot, very humid. I don’t remember the last time it was this weather in London.”
This was Sinner’s first match after a heartbreaking loss against Carlos Alcaraz in the Roland Garros final. Sinner added he wants to take one game at a time and not dwell too much into the past.
“It’s a new tournament. New chances, new challenges,” said Sinner. “You have one opponent at a time, so I’m very happy about today. Obviously, I try to keep going and try to enjoy playing here. If you don’t enjoy playing on these courts, I don’t know where you are going to enjoy it. I’m very happy to be here and let’s see what comes.”
Sinner revealed he worked hard on his serve and was delighted with his performance in the opening match at SW19.
“We worked a lot after Halle on the serve,” said Sinner. “Today, especially in the important moments, I was serving very well. In the beginning, I think we both struggled a little bit and there were not so many rallies, but after I tried to step up. I tried to hit through the ball. I’m very happy with how I ended the match, and hopefully that gives me the confidence to start the next match.
“First matches are never easy, so I’m very happy about my performance and especially my serving today.”
Sinner will next take on Aleksandar Vukic in the second round on Thursday.