It was a mixed opening day for Italy’s representatives at the ATP Finals in Turin. Lorenzo Musetti, who qualified at the last minute after reaching the Athens final against Novak Djokovic, couldn’t find his rhythm against Taylor Fritz, losing 6–3, 6–4. His next match, against Australia’s Alex De Minaur on Tuesday, will already be decisive for his semifinal hopes.
Jannik Sinner’s debut was far more convincing. The defending champion defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime 7–5, 6–1, though the first set lasted nearly an hour. After feeling pain in his left calf, the Canadian’s level dropped, allowing Sinner to dominate the second set with his trademark precision and strong serve.
Sinner later revealed that he had dinner before the match with Italian Davis Cup captain Filippo Volandri, confirming that no changes are planned for the national team. On Wednesday night, the world No. 4 will face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in a battle between the opening-round winners.