Sixth seed Jannik Sinner produced a masterclass in aggressive tennis to hand Carlos Alcaraz a 7-6(4), 6-1 defeat in the semi-final of the China Open on Tuesday to book a title clash with the in-form Daniil Medvedev.

Sinner edged a tight first set in the latest chapter of his growing rivalry with world No. 2 Alcaraz before the Italian went on the offensive in the next to reel off the games and seal his fourth win over the Spaniard in seven meetings.

"I'd say every match against him is very tough," Sinner said. "We both show great respect and play great. Today I played a little better in the important moments.

"The second set was 6-1 but he had a lot of chances. I tried to stay focused. The first set was more of a rollercoaster and I had to stay there mentally.

"I'm very happy about the performance."

Earlier, second seed Medvedev had an easier-than-expected 6-4, 6-3 semi-final win over Alexander Zverev.

This was the fifth meeting between the pair this year and although world No. 3 Medvedev won three of the previous four, Zverev had won their most recent clash in Cincinnati.

In the women's tournament, top seed Aryna Sabalenka rallied from behind in both sets to beat British qualifier Katie Boulter 7-5, 7-6(2).

World No. 2 Iga Swiatek progressed with a 6-4, 6-1 win over Varvara Gracheva.

Reuters