Jannik Sinner edged Andy Murray 7-5 6-2 to reach the quarter final at the Dubai Duty Free Championships. Sinner beat Murray for the first time in his career after losing to the Scotsman in their only previous head-to-head match in Stockolm last October.
Sinner did not face a single break point in the whole match.
Murray went down two break points in the fifth game of the first set but he saved them to hold serve at deuce for 3-2. Sinner won six consecutive points from 4-5 to earn his first break at love in the 11th game, as Murray hit his volley into the net. Murray got to 30-30 in the 12th game, but Sinner sealed the first set 7-5 with his first serve and a stunning forehand winner
Sinner went up an immediate break at 15 at the start of the second set with a drop shot on the break point and won his fifth consecutive game from 4-5 in the first set to build up a 7-5 2-0 lead. Murray had to save a break point in the third game.
Murray saved three break points as he was trailing 1-3, before Sinner converted his fourth chance to open up a 4-1 lead. Sinner served out the second set on his third match point in the eighth game.
Sinner set up a quarter final match against his friend and doubles partner Hubert Hurkacz. They have drawn to 1-1 in their previous head-to-head match.
“It’s a special feeling to share the court with Murray. He is a legend. Winning three Grand Slam titles, many tournaments and he has had unfortunate moments with surgeries. His fighting spiriti s incredible”, said Sinner.