Jannik Sinner capped off an impressive 2024 season on a triumphant note by playing a key role in Italy's success of their Davis Cup title. Demonstrating his exceptional skills, the world number one achieved a determined 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 victory over Tallon Griekspoor, leading Italy to a definitive 2-0 win against the Netherlands.
Matteo Berrettini's victory over Botic van de Zandschulp with a score of 6-4, 6-2 had given Italy a strong early lead in Malaga. This victory highlights a remarkable week for Italy's rising status in the tennis world, especially after the women's team clinched the Billie Jean King Cup title on Wednesday.
Sinner capped off an impressive season with the Davis Cup title
Sinner has wrapped up a highly successful season, capturing his first two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open in January and the US Open in September, along with securing an Olympic silver medal in Paris.
At just 23 years old, he also claimed victory at the season-ending ATP Finals earlier this month and has only lost six matches on the Tour in the past year.
Despite showing some fatigue as he faced a tie-break in the opening set against Griekspoor, Sinner demonstrated his resilience, rallying late in the second set to clinch Italy's third Davis Cup triumph on his fourth match point.
"We are very happy to be back here holding this trophy. It feels like we are in Italy, You have a different pressure and a different weight of having Italy on your shoulders - I think we handled it well. If it was not important I would not be here. For me, it means so much to me." Sinner said.
Berrettini greatly contributed to Italy's glory
Berrettini was a mere observer of Italy's 2023 victory from the sidelines as he diligently worked on his recovery from an ankle injury he acquired a few months prior.
In a positive turn of events, he made his return to competition in March and achieved remarkable success, securing three titles—his highest number in a single calendar year. He continued to show his impressive skills in his match against Van de Zandschulp, performing impressively with 10 forehand winners and 16 aces en route to victory.
"It feels unbelievable, it feels really great to be on court - being able to be health and enjoying this kind of atmosphere is the most important thing for me, I missed these moments and that's why I'm really happy." Berrettini said