"I see a lot of weaknesses in his game," jokes Auger-Aliassime ahead of his semifinal match against Sinner at the US Open
Félix Auger-Aliassime qualified this Wednesday for his second Grand Slam semifinal. Four years after previously reaching the final four at the US Open, the world No. 27 has repeated the feat in New York this season.
Beaten by Daniil Medvedev just short of the final in 2021, the 25-year-old Auger-Aliassime defeated Alex De Minaur in the quarterfinals (4-6, 7-6, 7-5, 7-6 in 4h09) and will now face Jannik Sinner for a spot in the final. The Canadian reflected on his victory over the Australian.
"What makes me happy is that I won, because it gives me the chance to play even better in the next match. It was a tough day; I struggled to find my rhythm.
I know that in a Grand Slam tournament, sometimes you have to play matches even when you're not feeling comfortable and find a way to overcome obstacles. I was able to respond under high-pressure situations and stay true to my playing style.
My first Grand Slam semifinal since 2021? I never put too much emphasis on results, especially early in my career because I was very aware of my youth.
If I had gone through this losing streak at 35, I probably would have thought I’d never make it back to a Grand Slam semifinal, but I focused on my daily progress and the belief that if I did my job well, the results would follow.
I'm in much better physical shape than before. I move with more agility and speed on the court. I also think my backhand is a bit more consistent, although it's my serve and forehand where I've improved the most.
I'm more precise and more consistent," he stated before discussing his next opponent, who will be world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Auger-Aliassime also leads their head-to-head 2-1 against the Italian.
"I see a lot of weaknesses in his game. More seriously, what can you say about Jannik (Sinner)? Sometimes, he's untouchable. But on Friday, I won't focus on my opponent—I'll focus on myself.
I have to play good tennis. I have to play even better than today. Sinner has improved a lot, and when someone reaches that level, you just have to tip your hat to him.
That's obviously what I hope to achieve in my career as well. He's physically stronger. His serve and forehand are more precise, his backhand is always steady, and he always finds excellent depth on the ball," concluded the Canadian for Tennis World Italia.
US Open 
