It’s not just the opponent. What players are saying in Cincinnati

By Lisa Kruse

Players at the Cincinnati Open want to win. And often, they’re up against more than just the player across the net. Here’s a bit of what they are talking about.

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“It was tough. It was very tough conditions. Very windy.”

Moments after his quarterfinal win Saturday, world No.1 Jannik Sinner acknowledged that the match was not without its challenges. Sinner’s win makes him the first Italian man to reach the Cincinnati Open semifinals in the Open Era.

3️⃣ hours and 4️⃣ minutes 🗣️#CincyTennis | @JPegula pic.twitter.com/HTi9dqU51b

— Cincinnati Open (@CincyTennis) August 17, 2024

“I was really tired today, to be honest. [But] I was able to get fired up a bit for the third. Really tough conditions, especially against a lefty, the wind was swirling…there were some awkward shots.”

Former world No.3 Jessica Pegula won BOTH her matches Friday (rain delays) to reach the quarterfinals. After a tight, 3-hour battle which went her way, (d. Fernandez), she is into the Cincinnati Open semifinals set for Sunday. And yes, if you’re counting – she’s played and won three matches in 24 hours.

From the courts to the coasters: Flavio Cobolli takes on Kings Island 🎢🎾#CincyTennis | @cobollifla pic.twitter.com/rJhdwBQmGI

— Cincinnati Open (@CincyTennis) August 17, 2024

“I’m a little bit nervous, but don’t tell anyone. I love to spend good time with the team. We’ll see what happens.”

While in Cincinnati, the No. 4 Italian Flavio Cobolli couldn’t resist the lure of amusement park fun and traveled across the highway to Kings Island. He enjoyed his roller coaster ride but passed up an opportunity to ride another. “No, I want to go home.” He did, however, smile after his time with the bumper cars.

“We’re both players and friends…I respect Aryna so much”

After prevailing in her Saturday quarterfinal match (d. 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva), world No.1 Iga Swiatek remarked on her next opponent – Aryna Sabalenka. “Overall, she’s a great tennis player.”

If you’re on the fence about heading to the Cincinnati Open for some world-class tennis…don’t think. Just do. The players are bound to be talking.