Jannik Sinner delights in impressive win over Francisco Cerundolo after 'raising level' to reach Rome quarter-finals - 'I need this'

React to this story

Jannik Sinner clinched victory in his toughest test since returning to action at the Italian Open in Rome, beating Argentinian Francisco Cerundolo in two sets on Tuesday to book his place in the quarter-final. The Italian said he "needs this" as he emphasised how grateful he was to be back on court. Sinner will face either Casper Ruud or Jaume Munar in the last eight.

Highlights: Sinner battles past Cerundolo for spot in Rome quarters

Video credit: SNTV

Jannik Sinner booked his place in the Italian Open quarter-finals after earning a 7-6(2) 6-3 victory over Francisco Cerundolo.

The Argentine has dominated on clay in 2025 with 18 wins, the most on the ATP Tour this year.

He presented Sinner with perhaps his toughest test since returning to action following a three-month suspension, and the Italian said how grateful he was to be back in action in Rome.

US Open Mixed Doubles -

Djokovic to partner Sabalenka in US Open mixed doubles, but Alcaraz, Sinner among absentees

28/07/2026 at 18:01

"He's a very tough competitor," said Sinner. "It's a great challenge for me, especially now in this moment trying to get used to so many difficult situations on the court. I broke him in the first and it was a very long game, and when he broke me back I just tried to stay there mentally and play every point.

"But I'm very happy because today I felt that I raised my level. Game-wise, I felt a little bit better, which I'm very glad and happy [about].

"It was very heavy conditions and it was a very long day. The crowd helped me so much today. I'm happy to go through."

Sinner managed to routinely blunt Cerundolo's offence, but was still put under pressure by the Argentine and forced to save two break points in the final game.

"I'll wake up and I know it's going to be a longer evening for me," Sinner said when asked about his recovery for the quarter-finals.

"I have to do many things and try to recover in the best possible way. But exactly as I said, I need this.

"I’m happy to be back [after] three months out, so with every situation I’m very fortunate and lucky. Let’s see, whatever comes up, comes up."

With Sinner passing to the next round in tandem with Lorenzo Musetti, who beat Daniil Medvedev, it marks the first time that two Italians have reached the quarter-final stage in Rome since 1984.

Sinner will face either Casper Ruud or Jaume Munar in the quarter-finals.

The pair were supposed to face off on Tuesday, but intense rain in Rome suspended their match.

Watch and stream the 2025 French Open live on TNT Sports and discovery+

Montreal Men's Singles -