Tommy Paul has set the stage for a highly anticipated fourth-round showdown against World No. 1 Jannik Sinner at the 2024 US Open, making it clear that he intends to challenge the Italian star. After a hard-fought victory over Canada’s Gabriel Diallo in the third round on Saturday, August 31, Paul expressed his determination to make Sinner uncomfortable during their upcoming encounter.
Paul’s third-round match against Diallo was anything but straightforward. He struggled with consistency, committing seven double faults and being broken five times in a four-set match that ended 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(3). Despite these challenges, Paul demonstrated resilience, converting nine break points and serving eight aces to secure his spot in the next round. This victory sets up a compelling clash with Sinner, who has been in top form.
The upcoming match will mark the fourth meeting between Paul and Sinner, with the Italian holding a slight edge in their head-to-head record at 2-1. Their rivalry began in 2022 when Sinner edged out Paul in a closely contested match, winning 6-7(4), 7-6(4), 6-3. However, Paul managed to even the score later that year at the Eastbourne International, where he claimed a 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 victory on grass. Their most recent encounter was in the semifinals of the 2023 Canadian Open, where Sinner emerged victorious with a 6-4, 6-4 win, going on to clinch the title.
During a press conference on Saturday at the US Open, Paul reflected on his previous encounters with Sinner, acknowledging the Italian’s skill and the challenges he presents. He noted that their matches have always been competitive, recalling a particularly tough match on clay where he had match points but ultimately lost. Paul also mentioned their most recent match in Toronto, where Sinner’s performance left little room for Paul to assert himself.
Despite the difficulties, Paul is determined to approach their upcoming match with a clear strategy. He plans to disrupt Sinner’s rhythm by playing his own game rather than getting drawn into the Italian’s style of play. Paul emphasized the importance of imposing his tactics on the match, recognizing that Sinner is a superior ball striker from the baseline but confident in his ability to challenge him in other aspects of the game.
Paul also expressed some frustration with his side of the draw, noting that while other sections have seen significant
upsets, including the early exits of top contenders Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, his path remains challenging. Nevertheless, he is excited about the opportunity to play on Arthur Ashe Stadium’s Center Court, seeing it as a moment to embrace despite the tough competition ahead.
As the stage is set for their clash on Monday, September 2, all eyes will be on Paul and Sinner as they battle for a place in the quarterfinals. With both players in strong form and eager to advance, their match promises to be a thrilling encounter at the 2024 US Open.
