Sinner holds off Dimitrov challenge to clinch French Open semi-final spot

NEW DELHI: Jannik Sinner, the Italian tennis prodigy, advanced to the French Open semi-finals with a commanding 6-2, 6-4, 7-6(3) triumph over Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov on Tuesday.

Unbeknownst to Sinner during the match, he was assured of becoming the new world number one following defending champion Novak Djokovic's withdrawal due to a knee injury.

The Australian Open champion now faces a potentially challenging encounter against either Carlos Alcaraz or Stefanos Tsitsipas, who are set to clash in another quarter-final match.

Sinner, seeded second in the tournament, wasted no time in asserting his dominance over the 10th-seeded Dimitrov, targeting the Bulgarian's backhand and securing a double break to claim the first set with ease.

Sinner continued his relentless performance in the second set, breaking Dimitrov's serve early on with a blistering crosscourt forehand winner.

Despite a minor back twinge, the 22-year-old Italian maintained his composure and extended his lead, setting the stage for his 33rd victory in an almost flawless season.

Although Dimitrov, who has enjoyed a resurgence this year with a title in Brisbane and two more final appearances, put up a valiant effort in the third set, Sinner remained focused and sealed the match with a clinical performance in the
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(With Reuters inputs)