Jannik Sinner recorded a straight sets 6-4, 6-4 win against Tommy Paul to secure his third ATP Masters 1000 final appearance against the in form Alex De Minaur.
The Italian was appearing in his 4th Masters semi of the season and bidding to enter in the second ATP 1000 final after Miami Open.
Both Sinner and Paul shared the semifinal court in comparatively better conditions than when it was occupied by De Minaur- Alejandro Davidovich Fokina for a straight set battle that concluded 6-1, 6-3.
It was a very tough day. Very tricky conditions out here,” said De Minaur. “Very windy, and not easy to play tennis, so from the first point I just told myself to stay positive. I was going to try and win every point, try to be solid and not expect perfect tennis. I think that made the difference today.”
The Italian felt that his win was a lot harder than the scoreline suggested but is aware of the fact that he needs to rise to any challenges before lifting the Masters 1000 trophy in Montreal.
“It’s always a privilege to stand on such a great court, playing a great match against an incredible opponent,” Sinner said post-match. “I’m just trying somehow to take any challenge that’s coming. Whether it’s the 46-ball rally [on break point in the second set] or also when you serve for the match and you get broken, and then after you have to find a solution somehow to win.
“I’m happy about how I reacted to every situation on the court. He played great. He’s a very nice guy. I’m happy to be again in the final and hopefully I can show some good tennis tomorrow.”
De Minaur broke new ground this week by qualifying for the maiden quarters of a Masters event in his career as he overcame both the last eight and last four opponents to grab the final berth.
“[I‘m proud of] bringing out the level that I knew I always could and being able to back it up day after day,” said De Minaur.
“That’s been one of the goals of mine, to stay consistent and keep bringing this level, and give myself chances to play in the deep ends of tournaments. To play against the best in the world and go toe to toe with them.
“I gave myself the chance this week, I’ve taken that opportunity, and tomorrow I get to play another final.”
While acknowledging the Aussie’s outstanding form in Toronto and some great runs in previous tournaments at the hardcourts, Sinner vowed to cope with the pressure pass the tough De Minaur test in the Championship match.
“Pressure is something great,” he said. “When you feel pressure, it’s something positive. It’s a privilege to have; not many players have that.
“Alex is an incredible player. He’s showing that here in this tournament and the week before making the final in Los Cabos. Hopefully it’s going to be a great match.”