World No. 1 Jannik Sinner returns to Centre Court on Saturday to face Spain’s Pedro Martínez Portero in a third-round Wimbledon clash between one of the game’s brightest stars and one of the tournament’s most quietly determined performers.
Sinner has looked composed and clinical through the first week, breezing past Luca Nardi and Aleksandar Vukic without dropping a set. The 23-year-old world No. 1 has continued his strong 2025 form, showcasing his fluid movement, early ball striking, and increasing comfort on grass.
Martínez Portero, currently ranked No. 52, arrives after grinding out two four-set victories against George Loffhagen and Mariano Navone. More at home on clay, the Spaniard has adapted well to the grass, but now faces a massive step up in opposition against a player in full control of his game.
Sinner vs. Martínez Portero Head-to-Head
The two have only met once before, with Sinner winning in straight sets on clay at the ATP Masters 1000 in Rome in 2022.
While Martínez Portero thrives on longer rallies and high topspin, Sinner’s flat hitting, powerful returns, and shotmaking off both wings make him a nightmare matchup on grass.
On Centre Court, where the ball stays lower and rewards clean aggression, Sinner has all the tools to dictate play and keep Martínez Portero on the defensive.
What to Watch
Sinner has been dominant in first sets, often breaking early and cruising through his service games. Martínez Portero’s best chance is to extend points, change pace, and test Sinner’s timing with height and spin — though doing that on grass is no easy task.
Watch for Sinner’s backhand down the line, which has been a particularly potent weapon this tournament, and how often Martínez Portero can pull him out wide to create space.
Prediction
Sinner in straight sets. Martínez Portero has battled well to reach the third round, but Sinner’s level is simply higher across the board — serve, return, movement, and power. Expect the Spaniard to fight hard and maybe push one set deep, but Sinner should advance comfortably.
How to Watch Sinner vs. Martínez Portero
The Jannik Sinner–Pedro Martínez Portero match is scheduled to begin around 8:30 AM Eastern on Centre Court.
The match will air live on ESPN as part of its whip-around coverage. A dedicated stream for the match is available to ESPN+ subscribers.
Jannik Sinner (1) vs. Pedro Martínez Portero
Time: 8:30 PM Eastern
Court: Centre Court
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app and website, ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV
Globely News covers the game changers transforming the worlds of business, sports, politics, and technology. From AI and electric vehicles to the rise of China and the NFL's next stars, we've got you covered.