After 2 hours and 28 minutes, the scoreboard showed a 3–6, 6–3, 7–5 victory for Jannik Sinner (ATP No. 2). But just five games into the first set, the Italian found himself in an unfamiliar position — trailing 1–4 against World No. 3 Alexander Zverev and facing two more break points. He managed to save them, but couldn’t prevent Zverev from taking the opening set 6–3. The German dominated on serve, landing 80 percent of his first serves, and frequently scoring with clean winners from the baseline.

Sinner turns the tide

During the set break, Sinner regrouped and stormed into the second set with a quick 3–0 lead. The 24-year-old grew more confident with every rally, even though a few uncharacteristic errors still crept in — the price of playing with the higher risk required to push Zverev out of his rhythm. After exactly 90 minutes, Sinner leveled the match, taking the second set 6–3.

The packed Wiener Stadthalle was then treated to a deciding set that had everything a tennis fan could wish for. Both players held serve with authority, and only at 2–2 did Zverev have to fend off two break points. Just when the crowd was expecting a tiebreak, Sinner struck again — breaking Zverev for 6–5 and calmly serving out the match.

Picture: e|motion/Bildagentur Zolles KG

“We know each other very well by now,” Sinner said right after the match. The key to victory, he explained, was his serve: “In the second set I returned better, and on the important points I tried to push.”

For Sinner, it marked his 10th consecutive victory in Vienna and his 21st straight win on indoor hard courts — and a successful defense of the Erste Bank Open crown he first claimed in 2023.

Zverev’s Humorous Speech

The entire Wiener Stadthalle rose to its feet during the trophy ceremony. First up was runner-up Alexander Zverev, who began his speech with some tongue in cheek remarks: “Unfortunately, I have to start with something unpleasant,” he said with a serious expression, before turning to champion Jannik Sinner. “You’re really starting to get on all of our nerves. Relax a bit — we know you’re the best, but let me win something once in a while!” he joked, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Then, in a more serious tone, he continued: “You’ve reached all the Grand Slam finals, won two of them — one, unfortunately, against me. You totally deserved today’s win. Congratulations.” Zverev went on to thank the tournament and its director: “Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and this tournament is one of the best we have. Thank you for all the hard work over so many years. It’s been an incredible week — a full stadium every day and amazing support for both players. I hope I’ll get my contract for next year soon.”

Praise from Sinner

Then it was time for Jannik Sinner to receive his trophy and winner’s check. His first words went to his final opponent: “Sascha, I know how tough this year has been for you, but you’re playing better every week. Congratulations to you and your team. Tennis needs you, so keep going.”

Sinner also expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the event, with a special mention for the ball crew: “I know you’ve had long days, but you did your job perfectly.” Turning to the crowd, he added: “This whole week has been special. I know there were quite a few South Tyroleans here too. It’s been an absolute dream. Vienna is one of the best tournaments we have.”