Novak Djokovic’s quest for the Six Kings Slam crown came to an unexpected halt in Riyadh, as the Serbian legend suffered a straight-set defeat to Italy’s Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. The 24-year-old Italian showcased a dominant display, overpowering Djokovic 6-4, 6-2 in just 63 minutes to secure his place in the final.
Sinner dominates as Djokovic struggles to find rhythm
Sinner’s performance was nothing short of commanding. With precise serves and aggressive returns, he quickly took control of the match, leaving Djokovic unable to find his rhythm. The 24-time Grand Slam champion squandered both his break-point opportunities and was broken three times in return — a rare sight for the veteran known for his resilience under pressure.
Jannik Sinner’s ability to dictate play from the baseline and maintain a relentless pace proved decisive. His victory not only marked another impressive win on his growing résumé but also continued his incredible run of success against Novak Djokovic, including their previous encounters in Riyadh.
Novak Djokovic’s humor and grace shine through defeat
Despite the loss, Djokovic once again demonstrated the sportsmanship and charm that have made him one of the sport’s most respected figures. During his on-court interview after the match, Djokovic turned the atmosphere light-hearted, apologizing to the fans for the quick contest while crediting Sinner’s brilliance.
“I'm sorry you could not see a longer match today. It's Jannik's fault, not mine. I tried to intimidate him a bit in that last game with the 0-15 point, but it did not work,” Novak Djokovic joked, drawing laughter from both Sinner and the crowd.
The defeat means Djokovic will now compete in the third-place playoff against American Taylor Fritz. Although the Six Kings Slam is an exhibition event, the Serb’s competitive spirit and charisma continue to win hearts across the globe.
While this was not an official ATP event, Djokovic’s participation once again underscored his commitment to the sport and to connecting with fans around the world. The 38-year-old will now shift his attention to his remaining schedule, which includes the upcoming ATP 250 event in Athens.
For Jannik Sinner, the victory serves as yet another statement performance in his rapidly ascending career. For Novak Djokovic, it’s a reminder that even in defeat, his grace, humor, and sportsmanship remain unmatched — traits that continue to define his legacy beyond the trophies.