Jannik Sinner showed why he is the number one seed in the men’s competition at the Mutua Madrid Open with a straightforward win on Saturday over Lorenzo Sonego (6-0, 6-3) in an all-Italian clash in the Manolo Santana Stadium.

“I know him really well because we play Davis Cup together and we are good friends. So I just tried to stay focused because these kinds of matches are not easy to play. I feel so good and solid on court”, said the world No. 2.

The recent Australian Open, Rotterdam and Miami champion was quick to snub out any risk of an upset, delivering his win in one hour and nine minutes after connecting with 16 winners, committing few errors (10) and looking unstoppable on his first serve (86%).

“I’m very happy to be back here. Last year I missed this tournament and I feel more excited. I love the atmosphere and the crowd. I’m just trying to play some good tennis and we will see how the tournament goes”, explained the Italian.

By reaching the third round Sinner has equalled his best result in the Caja Mágica. Now, against the winner of the tie between Australia’s Jordan Thompson and Pavel Kotov, he will be bidding to maintain the consistency that has taken him to at least the semis in every tournament this year.

“I don’t know if I am favourite to win this year. I will try to improve day after day because this tournament is a bit different with the altitude. I am just trying to adapt myself, but today I felt comfortable on court. Let’s see what is coming”, he explained on his chances of taking the spoils in the Spanish capital.

About Rafa Nadal’s last participation in Madrid announcement, Sinner had words of compliment for him. “He has given so much to the sport. A different mentality and how to come out from difficult situation. He’s father now, he has the family with him. I just wish him all the best, because, you know, hopefully the body still keeps going for as long as possible. I’m sure he will do whatever it takes”, concluded.