You thought it was over? Jannik Sinner expands 2024 trophy case with victory in the Davis Cup

Jannik Sinner left room for one more tournament victory as he and Matteo Berrettini lead Italy to sensational Davis Cup glory.

What an unbelievable year it has been for Jannik Sinner. The world number one had already won 8 ATP Tour titles in 2024, including the Australian Open, the US Open, and the year-end title. However, Sinner was not done there as he helped Italy to retain their Davis Cup crown.

The final would be contested against the Netherlands, who beat a Zverev-less Germany in the semifinals while Italy saw off Australia. Despite both Netherlands players, Tallon Griekspoor and Botic Van De Zandschlup, having low ATP ranks, 40 and 80, respectively, both are extremely dangerous players. Some of you may remember that Van De Zandschlup defeated Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open earlier this year. 

It was a welcome return to the Italy team for former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini, who is on his way back to his best after a long-term injury. Berrettini put on a masterclass, especially on serve hitting 16 aces, to dispatch of the dangerous Van De Zandshlup 6-4, 6-2 to get the Italians off to the perfect start.

The chance to retain the Davis Cup now lay with Sinner. It was a spirited effort from Griekspoor, but recent form suggested the match was only going to go one way. The first set was close, going to a tiebreak, but Sinner claimed it; once Sinner had the first set, he was always going to put his foot down. A dominant second set saw Sinner win 6-2 and claim yet another title.

It has been an excellent year for Sinner, but also for Italian tennis in general. Jasmine Paolini and Lucia Bronzetti spearheaded Italian victory in the Billie Jean King Cup last week to make it a double for Italian tennis.

Italy seems to be turning into one of the dominant forces in international tennis, with a whole host of great players in and around the ATP top 50, including Lorenzo Musetti, Flavio Cobolli, Mateo Arnaldi, Luciano Darderi, Lorenzo Sonego and of course Sinner and Berrettini. 

Sinner seems to be spearheading a new generation of Italian superstars, and after completing one of the best seasons in ATP history, he looks to perhaps have an edge on Carlos Alcaraz heading into the 2025 season.

It will be fascinating to see how their exciting rivalry pans out in 2025.