Sinner rediscovers Wimbledon's old virtues with a powerful serve

Jannik Sinner is finding success at Wimbledon by reviving the sport's classic strengths, particularly a dominant serve. While the game has evolved to favor longer rallies, Sinner's powerful and accurate service game is proving decisive on the grass courts.

After a physical dip and early exit at the French Open, Sinner has refocused on his serve in Wimbledon. He has served 97 aces in five matches, effectively winning almost a set per match without his opponent touching the ball. This was crucial in his quarterfinal win against Jan-Lennard Struff, where his serve yielded only two break chances for the opponent.

Sinner's serve averages 201 km/h, making it one of the fastest among top players. Its precision means that even when opponents return the ball, Sinner often has an easier time. He noted, "I felt like I was serving well at times – especially in important moments. That also helped me to be a bit freer in the return games."

However, the return game remains critical at Wimbledon, a skill mastered by past champions like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. Sinner's semifinal opponent, Djokovic, is considered the best return player of his generation. Djokovic employs a similar strategy, relying on his return game to counter strong serves, setting up a compelling matchup for Sinner's resurgent serving prowess.

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I felt like I was serving well at times – especially in important moments. That also helped me to be a bit freer in the return games.