Jannik Sinner has broken Novak Djokovic’s all-time record for consecutive victories at ATP Masters 1000 tournaments after reaching the semi-finals of the Italian Open on Thursday.
The Italian world number one defeated Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4 to register his 32nd straight win at Masters 1000 level surpassing Djokovic’s previous record of 31 consecutive victories set in 2011.
“I don’t play for records, I play just for my own story,” Sinner said after the match.
“At the same time, it means a lot to me, but tomorrow is another day, another opponent.”
The 24-year-old dominated the quarter-final clash in Rome, breaking Rublev’s serve early in both sets while capitalising on the Russian’s 28 unforced errors.
Sinner also produced moments of brilliance, including a stunning cross-court drop shot that helped him secure a decisive break in the second set.
Reflecting on the conditions, Sinner admitted the windy weather in Rome made the match difficult.
“I felt like we both didn’t play at our best today, but the conditions here are very tough,” he said.
The victory keeps Sinner on course to become only the second man after Djokovic to win all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles.
He is also aiming to become the first Italian in 50 years to win the Rome title.
Sinner, who has now won 45 of his last 47 matches across all tournaments, will next face either Daniil Medvedev or Martin Landaluce in the semi-finals.
The Italian has enjoyed a remarkable season, winning Masters 1000 titles in Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, Madrid, and Paris, while also becoming the first player in history to claim five consecutive Masters 1000 crowns.
With French Open approaching later this month, Sinner is increasingly being viewed as the favourite to continue his dominance, especially with rival Carlos Alcaraz currently sidelined through injury.
The achievement has also drawn comparisons with tennis great Rafael Nadal. Since the ATP Masters 1000 format was introduced in 1990, only Nadal has recorded more wins at the level than Sinner over the same number of matches.
