Jannik Sinner overcame Nuno Borges 7-6 (4), 7-6 (2), 6-4 in the second round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, but the world No. 1 conceded his form is still below par as he battles to retain his title. The Italian, who struggled to a five-set win in the first round, spent over two hours on court again, raising concerns about his stamina with a heatwave forecast for the weekend.
Sinner admits forehand not up to standard
When asked if his forehand was as good as it could be, Sinner replied bluntly: "No, it's not." He elaborated on areas needing improvement, including net play, aggression, movement on grass, and return of serve, particularly on second serves. "All shots I can do slightly better," he said. "But second match on grass, I was not looking for perfection."
Time on court a growing concern
Last year, Sinner lost just 17 games in his first three matches and spent five hours and 15 minutes on court. This year, after two matches, he has lost 39 games and been on court for six hours and two minutes. With temperatures in London expected to reach 31C (88F), his stamina, which has long been questioned, could be tested further.
Sinner acknowledged the tough start but was uncertain if it was beneficial. "For sure, for the first match on grass, having a tough opener, then getting through, was important," he said. "Today, I managed the first couple of sets very well in tricky moments."
Borges had chances but failed to convert
Borges had set point at 5-4 in the second set but missed a makeable shot into the net. A fortunate net cord from Sinner and another Borges error allowed the Italian to take the set and eventually the match. "The second set was important," Sinner said. "The dynamic can change in the third set if you go up two sets to love."
Next up: Jenson Brooksby
Sinner will face unseeded American Jenson Brooksby in the third round on Friday. Brooksby, who beat No. 32 seed Ignacio Buse in straight sets, acknowledged the challenge: "It would probably be one of the couple toughest challenges right now in tennis. But I'm always someone who loves that challenge." Sinner remains the overwhelming favourite to win the tournament, especially with Carlos Alcaraz absent.
