Tommy Paul plans to ‘mix things up’ to counter Jannik Sinner in US Open quarters

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is the favorite to win, but on Monday, the crowd favorite will be Tommy Paul.

“It makes it more fun. You have the crowd behind you,” Paul said. “Obviously, most of the matches here, when you’re an American and you’re playing a foreign guy, you’re going to have the crowd support on your side. Momentum plays a big role.”

The 27-year-old American, Tommy Paul, hasn’t had an easy journey through the U.S. Open draw like Sinner, who has won his last eight matches.

Despite the minor steroid scandal surrounding the Italian player, Paul will have the support of the crowd.

Paul is known for his tenacity while Sinner has faced illness and a sore hip recently.

The fast and agile Paul is a tough opponent who will challenge Sinner. Paul previously defeated the Italian two years ago in the Round of 16 at Eastbourne.

“I’m definitely going to try and make it uncomfortable for him,” Paul said. “I wouldn’t say I’m a better ball striker than him, so I’ve got to impose my game on him and play my tennis. He’s probably the best ball-striker on tour, and I’m not. I want to mix things up.”

Three months ago, New York-born Paula Badosa thought she might have to quit tennis.

Now, she is in the U.S. Open quarterfinals against American Emma Navarro after a convincing victory in the previous round.

“I’m going to play an American, a home crowd. But I like this kind of stuff. It’s a challenge, and I’m really looking forward to it,” Badosa said.

Badosa overcame a stress fracture last year and fought her way back to the top.

Although born in Manhattan, Badosa understands that the crowd may not be on her side. She is ready for the challenge and excited to play on a big stage.

“It’s still going to be cool. I still like it. It’s going to be my first time on Ashe. It’s going to be my first time in a U.S. Open quarterfinals, also. So it’s an experience for me. I like these kind of challenges. I was born to play on big stages, and I’m really looking forward to that.”