World No 1 Jannik Sinner has broken Novak Djokovic’s record by winning his 32nd straight match at ATP Masters 1000 level, beating Andrey Rublev to advance to the Italian Open semi-finals.
Sinner landed shots on the lines repeatedly in a 6-2 6-4 triumph, putting him in prime position to become the first Italian man to win his home tournament since Adriano Panatta in 1976.
He lost last year’s final in Rome to Carlos Alcaraz, who is sidelined due to a right wrist injury, while Jasmine Paolini in 2025 became the first Italian woman to raise the trophy in 40 years.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Tim Henman and Laura Robson discuss Andy Murray joining Jack Draper’s coaching team, believing the British No 2 will gain so much, but wonder how it will play out with the extra spotlight
Sinner broke serve in the opening game for a third straight match and never lost control against Rublev, who was once ranked as high as No 5. His win streak extends to almost four months, with his last loss coming against Jakub Mensik on February 19 at the Qatar Open.
His semi-final opponent will be 2023 Rome champion Daniil Medvedev or Spanish qualifier Martina Landaluce, who face off later on Thursday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Highlights of Jessica Pegula against Iga Swiatek from the Italian Open
The Italian Open is the only Masters event that Sinner hasn’t won, while Djokovic has won each ATP Masters 1000 event twice over.
Meanwhile, in the women’s semi-finals, Coco Gauff faces Sorana Cirstea while Iga Swiatek plays Elina Svitolina.
Watch the Italian Open in Rome until this Sunday, live on Sky Sports or stream with NOW and the Sky Sports app.
