Sinner winner helps Djokovic through
Novak Djokovic stayed on track for a record-breaking seventh ATP Finals title after Italy's Jannik Sinner beat Holger Rune 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 on Thursday to seal the Serbian world number one's semi-final ticket. Sinner was already guaranteed a spot in the last four after Hubert Hurkacz claimed a set in his 7-6 [7/1], 4-6, 6-1 defeat to Djokovic earlier in the day, and the world number four topped the group after a battling win at the Pala Alpitour in Turin. "It was hard, I'd never beaten him before... the crowd helped me a lot," said Sinner. "I'm pleased with how I won the game." With Sinner already assured of a semi-final berth, the Italian could have lost against Rune knowing that a defeat would eliminate Djokovic from the tournament. But Sinner fought hard to secure first place with his third win in three group matches, allowing world number one Djokovic to follow him into the next round. In the semis the reigning Toronto Masters champion will play whoever finishes second in the Red Group, while Djokovic will face the group winner. Carlos Alcaraz and current Red Group leader Daniil Medvedev – who is also already in the semis - face off on Friday afternoon before Alexander Zverev takes on eliminated Andrey Rublev. Sinner's win saved Djokovic from a disappointing end to what has been an age-defying 2023 from the 36-year-old, who won three Grand Slams and took his 1000 Masters crowns to 40, another record. (AFP)