Jannik Sinner Advances to Third Round, Cleared of Doping Allegations

Top seed Jannik Sinner defeated American Alex Michelsen in straight sets to reach the third round of the U.S. Open. Despite being cleared of doping allegations, his case remains under scrutiny. Sinner next faces Australian Christopher O'Connell in the Grand Slam's subsequent round.

Top-seeded Jannik Sinner defeated American Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-0, 6-2 on Thursday, advancing to the third round of the U.S. Open. Despite his recent exoneration from doping allegations, the case continues to draw attention.

Sinner capitalized on eight of his 16 break-point opportunities, defeating Michelsen in just 99 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This win marks his ATP Tour-leading 30th hard-court victory of 2024. 'I feel like I can improve still a couple of things,' said the 23-year-old Italian during his on-court interview. 'But you have to be obviously very happy to be in the next round and so I'm just trying to get better as a player.'

The early stages saw Michelsen challenge Sinner by breaking back twice in the first set. However, Sinner clinched the set with a 5-4 lead and dominated the second set by sprinting to a 3-0 lead. Michelsen struggled with his serve and unforced errors, allowing Sinner to sustain his momentum.

Though Michelsen showed promise early in the third set, Sinner remained resolute, gaining a 3-2 lead after a decisive break. He then served out the match, contrasting their previous encounter in Cincinnati, where Sinner won in closely contested sets.

'Very happy to be through against a very tough opponent,' Sinner remarked post-match. 'We played each other in Cincinnati, so I knew a little bit what to expect. He did, too.' Sinner, who boasts five ATP Tour titles this year, will next face Australian world number 87 Christopher O'Connell.

Leading up to the final Grand Slam of the year, the International Tennis Integrity Agency revealed Sinner had tested positive for an anabolic agent in March. However, he avoided a ban due to a ruling of no fault or negligence.

(With inputs from agencies.)