Jannik Sinner delivered another commanding performance at the Miami Open, but his focus quickly shifted beyond tennis.
The Italian star eased past Frances Tiafoe with a dominant 6-2, 6-2 win in the quarter-finals.
The match lasted just over one hour and ten minutes, leaving Sinner with a narrow window before another key event.
Jannik Sinner eager to wrap up duties after Miami Open win in a bid to watch Italy vs Northern Ireland
On Sinner’s mind, attention soon turned to Italy’s crucial European play-off clash against Northern Ireland.
The world number two admitted this as he headed into his post-match commitments.
“Yes, I will watch [the game]. That’s why we need to hurry up a bit. So, let’s see what’s coming. We have a positive mentality. We hope for a good match and we know what’s on the line. So, I will be supportive,” he replied when questioned on the matter.
The timing added extra urgency to his media duties.
Italy’s match kicked off roughly an hour after his win, leaving little room for delay.
Sinner’s comments, days after weighing in on F1’s new regulations, highlighted how he is linked to other sports beyond tennis.
Italy deliver result as Jannik Sinner’s hopes realised
Italy secured a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Both goals came in the second half, with Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean finding the net.
The result means Italy advance to the final stage of the European play-offs, where they will face Bosnia and Herzegovina.
A defeat next Tuesday would see the Azzurri miss a third consecutive World Cup.
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