Jannik Sinner overwhelmed Sebastian Korda 6-1, 6-2 on Wednesday to open his clay season at the Monte Carlo Masters on a winning note.
The world No. 2 claimed his 23rd victory this season as he takes aim at the clay classic and announces himself as a serious title threat at Roland Garros.
Sinner, with titles this season at the Australian Open, Rotterdam and Miami, has won 26 of his last 27 matches,
The hottest player of the season spent just 76 minutes in crushing Korda to reach the third round.
He produced 17 winners while his opponent was weighed down by 21 unforced errors in the rout on the Ranier showcourt at the iconic venue overlooking the Med.
Sinner saved all three break points against his serve.
“Sebi have similar game styles, so we are not playing like the classic clay-court specialists, we like to play quite flat,” Sinner said.
“I moved quite well in these conditions. Every year it is tough to come here and perform well but I am happy with the performance.
“Let’s see what is coming in the next round, it is always great to be back here.”
Sinner will next face 2023 Madrid Masters finalist Jan-Lennard Struff of Germany.