Jannik Sinner advanced to the 2024 Shanghai Masters final with a commanding straight-sets win over Tomas Machac.
The top-ranked player secured a 6-4, 7-5 triumph against the 23-year-old Czech in the semi-finals of the ATP Masters 1000 event.
After his victory, Sinner discussed clinching the year-end ATP world No 1 ranking for the first time.
“It’s incredible. It’s something you fantasise about as a youngster,” Sinner remarked in a post-match interview.
“Not just reaching the top spot, but securing the year-end No 1 is uniquely special. However, this happened mid-tournament, so I’m not dwelling on it.
“I know tomorrow’s final is crucial. But this means a great deal to me. I couldn’t have achieved this without my support network. All credit to my team.”
Sinner has reached his first Shanghai final and will face either Novak Djokovic or Taylor Fritz as he aims for his fourth Masters 1000 title.
The 23-year-old Italian has now reached eight finals during his outstanding 2024 campaign, with seven of these at hard-court events, while the other was on grass in Halle.
Jannik Sinner’s finals in 2024
Australian Open – won vs. Daniil Medvedev
Rotterdam – won vs. Alex de Minaur
Miami – won vs. Grigor Dimitrov
Halle – won vs. Hubert Hurkacz
Cincinnati – won vs. Frances Tiafoe
US Open – won vs . Taylor Fritz
Beijing – lost vs. Carlos Alcaraz
Shanghai – will face Novak Djokovic or Taylor Fritz
