Jannik Sinner said it “took some time to get in the rhythm,” but the world No. 1 in men’s tennis advanced to the second round of the US Open with a 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 win against American Mackenzie McDonald.
His win Tuesday in New York was Sinner’s first match since his doping case became public knowledge last week – news that shocked the tennis world. Sinner, who avoided suspension after twice testing positive for trace amounts of a banned substance, has said he hasn’t done anything wrong.
He will face another American, Alex Michelsen, in the second round Thursday.
After his match against McDonald, Sinner told reporters he was “curious to see how the reaction of the fans has been.”
“But it has been very positive,” the Italian said. “I was very glad how the support was, also playing against an American. It’s a little bit different.
“I’m happy how I handled those sort of situations; it was not easy. So I think a lot of positive things from (today), and so let’s keep seeing what’s coming in the next round.”
