The set score is 12-0 in favor of the Italian. We’re rooting for Jannik, of course—we can already picture him at the walls of Troy, dueling Alcaraz once again. But how can you not feel some sympathy for the Australian?

In the Fellini-esque mythology of Fusignano, as recounted by Arrigo Sacchi, there was also Lorenzo Zagonari, a wealthy scion and billiards enthusiast, convinced he could beat the bar’s best player. One million lire per game. He lost 18 in a row. Given the times, he gambled away three apartments in a single night. His opponent taunted him: “Let’s play the 19th. I’m still not convinced I’m better than you…” Much like Jannik Sinner with Alex De Minaur: “I’ve won 12 times, but I’m not convinced I’m better. Come on, let’s play one more.” So, this afternoon, in the Turin semifinal, they’ll face off on the court again. From the 2019 Next Gen ATP Finals to the 2025 ATP semifinals in Beijing, the head-to-head stands at 12-0. We’re rooting for Jannik, of course—we can already picture him beneath the walls of Troy, dueling Alcaraz once again. But how can you not feel some sympathy for De Minaur? How will he keep hope alive against an opponent who has beaten him 12 times? He’ll need the unyielding tenacity of Wile E. Coyote, who regularly crashes at the bottom of the canyon but never gives up the chase after Beep-Beep.

Belief in one’s own abilities, beyond reason: that’s the essence of sports. Even the Australian has had boxes delivered from the legendary ACME, filled with new traps: the stats say he serves better in Turin, that his down-the-line forehand is more effective, and his victory over Fritz has given him a boost. Willy De Minaur is giving it another shot. He’ll strap rockets to his feet, have himself launched by a slingshot, and aim for the corners with a ball that’s never too heavy. The trouble is that pieces of rock will come flying back at him. Beep Beep!