Jannik Sinner has provided reassurance about his fitness ahead of Sunday's Italian Open final against Carlos Alcaraz after battling through pain in his semi-final victory.
The Italian star overcame Tommy Paul 1-6 6-0 6-3 despite visibly limping during parts of the match.
Sinner's discomfort raised concerns among fans as he struggled with movement at times against the American. However, he managed to recover from losing the first set to secure his place in the final.
The world No 1 will now face Alcaraz in what promises to be an enthralling contest, with both players seeking to claim the prestigious Rome title.
Jannik Sinner has provided reassurance about his fitness ahead of Sunday's Italian Open final against Carlos Alcaraz after battling through pain in his semi-final victory
REUTERS
Sinner revealed that a foot blister has been troubling him since the third round of the tournament.
"Since the third round I have a small blister under my feet which doesn't allow me that well to move at some moments," he explained.
JUST IN:Emi Martinez 'has offers from three clubs' as wife sends message to crying Aston Villa star
Jannik Sinner will face Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the Italian Open on Sunday
REUTERS
The Italian was quick to downplay any serious concerns about the injury: "Today I felt it more than yesterday, and it's connected with that. Likewise, I am not concerned. Just a bit tight.
He expressed confidence that the issue would not affect his performance in the final: "It's normal but I have to take care of this blister. There are no excuses.
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy forced into change after breaking golf rules at PGA Championship
"With the adrenaline, there is going to be a lot of energy on Sunday and I am 100 per cent not concerned."
Sinner will need to be at his best to overcome Alcaraz, having won just four of their 10 previous encounters. Their most recent meeting ended in victory for the Spaniard last October.
Since that defeat, Sinner has been in remarkable form, putting together an impressive 26-match winning streak across five tournaments.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
The Italian Open represents Sinner's first tournament appearance following a three-month suspension for returning two positive doping tests in 2024. Despite this interruption to his season, he has shown little sign of rust in his performances in Rome.
Looking ahead to the final, Sinner acknowledged the familiarity between himself and Alcaraz.
"Yeah, different feeling. We know each other quite well now. It's always special to share the court with him," he said.
Jannik Sinner is relishing his upcoming duel against Carlos Alcaraz, with the Italian saying it's always 'special' to face his rival
REUTERS
"I feel like we both know how to play against each other a little bit, so we have to be prepared tactically. Of course, small things are going to be changed, but it's just a great test for me to see where I am.
"It's great for me to play against Carlos before the two Grand Slams. That for me is good because I see where I have to improve, what I have to do better. Hopefully it's going to be a good match."
