Arthur Fils is preparing for an explosive showdown at the Madrid Open, where he will face world number one, Jannik Sinner, in a semi-final that promises to be historic. The young Frenchman, just 21 years old, reveals how the arrival of the legendary Goran Ivanisevic by his side is transforming his game and propelling his career to unprecedented heights.
Fils, currently in top form, boasts nine consecutive victories and views the clash against Sinner, who arrives with an impressive streak of 21 straight wins, as a true test of fire. This matchup, scheduled for Friday at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Madrid, will be the second between the two players, following Sinner’s clear victory of 7-5, 6-2 in Montpellier three years ago.
The hiring of Goran Ivanisevic, Wimbledon champion in 2001 and former world number 2, has been crucial for Fils’s development, who returned to the circuit in February after a back injury. Ivanisevic, known for mentoring Novak Djokovic to nine Grand Slam titles between 2019 and 2024, as well as guiding Marin Cilic to his only major title at the 2014 US Open, is making significant contributions in the coaching of the young Frenchman.
In exclusive statements to L’Equipe, Fils praised his coach: “He helps me with everything, from serving to playing at the net. We work on me being able to play more often from outside the line and putting more pressure on the opponent.” The French tennis player also highlighted Ivanisevic’s unique experience and his incredible victory at Wimbledon: “It’s fantastic to have him by my side. He was world number 2, but what fascinates me most is how he won Wimbledon – it’s absolutely crazy. He tells amazing stories, and that helps me stay motivated.”
After defeating Jiri Lehecka in the quarter-finals, Fils expressed confidence for the showdown with Sinner: “Neither of us has lost a single match on clay in this tournament. He is very confident, and so am I. I expect a great duel, an intense match.” The Frenchman showed respect for the Italian’s form and mental strength: “I saw his match against [Rafael] Jodar, which could have gone Jodar’s way, but Sinner showed great mental resilience. I will have to be at my best from start to finish. I know I will have opportunities, and I have to take them.”
The world number 25 also admitted that this will be his first encounter with Sinner on clay, adding even more suspense to the match: “I will understand where I really stand, regardless of the result. There is a lot to learn and analyze. I am eager to step onto the court and, as always, I will fight to win.”
This clash between Fils and Sinner at the Madrid Open is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated matches in the world of tennis right now. With two rising young talents, renowned coaches, and impressive trajectories, fans can expect a high-level spectacle that will make history on the circuit.
Get ready to follow every point of this epic duel, which promises to ignite the stands of Madrid and leave a lasting impact on the 2026 tennis season.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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