Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the US Open match.
Jannik Sinner
Italian star Jannik Sinner triumphed over Daniil Medvedev for the second time this year—both victories on hard courts. Throughout most of the match, Sinner appeared stronger. Despite Medvedev chasing down some insanely difficult shots, Sinner matched him with equally impressive saves. Sinner held a significant edge in winners (115-91). Medvedev shone briefly in the second set, which he won comfortably (6:1), with all statistics leaning in his favour. However, the crucial moment for the Russian came when he lost his serve in the fourth set at 3:3. He couldn't recover from this setback. Jannik Sinner has now reached his first semi-final at the US Open.
Jack Draper
Jack Draper's encounter with Alex De Minaur was his first real test at the US Open. He had confidently dispatched previous opponents but wasn’t the favourite against the Australian. Draper had also lost all three of their head-to-head matches. This time, he played a powerful and aggressive brand of tennis, fueled by absolute confidence. Draper dominated completely, with his winners tally outstripping De Minaur's by nearly 30 (105-76). Reaching the US Open semi-final marks his best performance in all Grand Slams.
Jannik Sinner - Jack Draper Prediction
The semi-finalists have faced off only once, back in 2021, when Sinner was not yet at his current level. Draper won that encounter on the grass courts of Queen's Club (7:6, 7:6). Now, with a different surface and both players having honed their skills, the Italian looks the more balanced player. Even if the match turns into a marathon, Sinner should come out on top.