Sinner kicks off 2025 US Open title defense with sweeping win

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner opened his US Open title defense in dominant fashion, routing Vit Kopriva 6-1, 6-1, 6-2 on Aug. 27, 2025, at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

It was all Sinner from the start, as the Italian ace earned consecutive break points to take a quick 3-1 lead.

He capitalized on Kopriva’s early nerves, taking advantage of return errors and multiple double faults.

Kopriva, a 28-year-old from the Czech Republic, was making his debut in the US Open main draw—a tough first match against the reigning champion.

Sinner sealed the first set with a flurry of forehand winners and two aces in just the first 20 minutes.

The second set followed the same script, with Sinner’s relentless groundstrokes preventing Kopriva from finding any rhythm.

Kopriva had a few standout moments, including a forehand passing shot when Sinner approached the net midway through the second set.

He also wowed the crowd with a creative slice return off a flat backhand drive.

But the highlights were short-lived, as Sinner closed the third set with back-to-back winners after long rally exchanges.

From his trademark forehands to an improved net game, Sinner overpowered Kopriva, winning 84 total points in just three sets.

“It feels great to be back here,” Sinner said during his post-match interview.

“It’s a very special tournament, the last Grand Slam of the year. The atmosphere here is always amazing. I’m very happy about today’s performance.”