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

In the Fellinian mythology of Fusignano, recounted by Arrigo Sacchi, there was also Lorenzo Zagonari, a wealthy scion, passionate about billiards, convinced he could beat the best player in the bar. A million lire per game. He lost 18 in a row. Considering the times, he gambled away three apartments in one night. His opponent provoked him: “Let’s play the 19th. I’m still not convinced I’m stronger than you…” Much like Jannik Sinner with Alex De Minaur: “I’ve won 12 times, but I’m not convinced I’m stronger. Come on, let’s play another one.” So, this afternoon, in the semifinals in Turin, they will meet again on the court. From the ATP Finals Next Gen ’19 to the ATP semifinals in Beijing ’25, the score is 12-0. We’re rooting for Jannik, of course, and we can already see him at the walls of Troy, dueling with Alcaraz once again. But how can you not feel sympathy for De Minaur? How will he keep his hopes alive against an opponent who has beaten him 12 times? He needs the unyielding stubbornness of Wile E. Coyote, who regularly crashes at the bottom of the canyon but never gives up chasing Beep-Beep.

Belief in one’s own abilities, beyond reason: that is the meaning of sport. The Australian has also had boxes delivered from the legendary ACME containing new traps: statistics say that he serves better in Turin, that his forehand down the line is more effective, and his victory over Fritz has given him a boost. Willy De Minaur tries again. He will strap rockets to his feet, be launched from a slingshot, and seek out the corners with a ball that is never too heavy. The trouble is that pieces of rock will come back at him. Beep Beep!