Jannik Sinner launches Shanghai title defence on a high, beats Daniel Altmaier in opening round

World No.2 Jannik Sinner catapulted his Shanghai Masters title defense on the right note, beating Daniel Altmaier in straight sets in the opening round on Saturday. The Italian registered a 6-3, 6-3 win against the German to advance in the tournament.

Sinner claimed the win at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena and brought his A-game to the court. The Italian is looking to become the first player to successfully defend the Shanghai title since Novak Djokovic in 2013.

Sinner recently won the China Open in Beijing and continued his rich form in Shanghai. The Italian admitted it was always going to be a tough match against the German.

“I knew before the match it was going to be very difficult today,” said Sinner. “I didn’t have a lot of time to adapt here, but it makes it even more special. Every day, every opponent is very difficult, it’s a huge challenge. So I’m very happy to come through today and hopefully I’m able to raise my level tomorrow.”

Speaking about moving from Beijing to Shanghai, Sinner said it is much more humid in the latter’s city.

“Everything is different [here]. It’s much more humid and it can feel much more physical here,” said Sinner, when asked about adapting from Beijing to Shanghai. “I tried to rest, but it is difficult after you win a title. You have to have a great balance of practice. Obviously now the priority is to feel as good as I can physically for the next one.”

Sinner has been ticking the right boxes and he will next take on Netherlands’ Tallon Griekspoor in the round of 32 on Sunday.