Jannik Sinner surpasses Nadal and Djokovic, achieving a historic milestone after his latest victory at the 2025 US Open

Jannik Sinner continues his dominant streak in hard-court Grand Slams by defeating Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 in the second round of the 2025 US Open, securing a spot in the third round and marking a significant milestone in his career.

Sinner surpasses Nadal and Djokovic; equals Federer’s achievement

This victory allows the world No.1 to extend his undefeated record in hard-court Grand Slams to 23 matches since beginning his hot streak with the Australian Open title earlier in 2024.

Sinner’s winning run has pushed him past icons like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal for the best start in hard-court Grand Slam history. With this latest win, Sinner completes his first 50 matches at the Australian Open and US Open with a 41-9 record, matching the record previously set by Roger Federer.

Although nicknamed the "King of Grass," Federer also dominated hard courts during his prime, winning 11 titles including five straight US Open championships from 2004 to 2008.

"I always strive to play the best tennis possible," Sinner said after his win, as he prepared to face 27th seed Denis Shapovalov in the third round.

"I’m happy with how I controlled the first two sets. When leading by two sets and holding a break, I always try to serve as solidly as I can. Today, neither of us served particularly well, but my returns were good, especially on his second serves. I still want to improve my serve, but overall I feel comfortable with the rest of my game."

*Longest winning streak records at hard-court Grand Slams

+40 matches – Roger Federer (2005-2008)

+27 – Novak Djokovic (2011-2012)

+26 – Ivan Lendl (1985-1988)

+26 – Novak Djokovic (2015-2016)

+25 – John McEnroe (1979-1982)

+23 – Jannik Sinner (2024-2025*)

Off the court, Sinner shared an interesting routine while competing in New York. "I’m not superstitious, but there are several excellent Italian restaurants here. I tend to rotate among three or four familiar spots to stay safe and avoid health issues. New York offers fantastic cuisine and very friendly people," he commented.

If he keeps his unbeaten streak, Sinner could join the ranks of Open Era legends who have won the US Open in back-to-back years after their first title, including John McEnroe, Stefan Edberg, Pat Rafter, and Federer.

McEnroe first claimed the trophy in 1979 and successfully defended it in 1980. Edberg won in 1991 and repeated in 1992. Rafter achieved the same in 1997-1998, before Federer began his five consecutive US Open wins starting in 2004.