Jannik Sinner fought through tension and cramps to secure his spot in the final of the Australian Open, surpassing Ben Shelton in a straight-set victory on Rod Laver Arena. The world No. 1 triumphed with scores of 7-6(2), 6-2, 6-2, after more than two and a half hours of intense gameplay, but not without calling for medical assistance during the match.
Sinner expressed relief and satisfaction about overcoming physical challenges, admitting, "A lot of tension and cramps today. He was suffering today in his legs. I tried to move him around and stay more aggressive, which helped a lot." His semi-final was pivotal, especially the first set, which he regarded as "very important for building confidence". Sinner noted, "There was a lot of tension for both of us. I’m very happy with how I handled the situation today and happy to be back in the final."
Finding himself pitted against world No. 2 Alexander Zverev, Sinner noted the difficulties posed by his upcoming rival. Zverev capitalized on Novak Djokovic's retirement during the first semi-final due to injury, taking the first set tie-break before Djokovic withdrew, making it Zverev's third Grand Slam final appearance. Sinner recognized the challenge Zverev presents, particularly citing his opponent's powerful serve and athletic prowess.
Laura Robson, Eurosport expert, expressed some concern about Sinner's current form, stating she found it "scary" Sinner had reached this point without yet playing his best tennis during the tournament. "He still won in straight sets...which is absolutely all you could ask for," Robson explained, indicating Sinner's ability to perform remarkably well, even when not at peak performance.
Other pundits, including Tim Henman, also analyzed the combativeness of the semi-final match. He praised Sinner's focus and execution, noting the elevation of Sinner's performance at decisive moments following the initial stage's tightness. Henman observed, "7-6, 6-2, 6-2 looks straightforward, but it felt closer than the score indicated".
Despite the victory, the match was not flawless for Sinner, who accumulated 26 unforced errors during his contest with Shelton. The American had opportunities to snatch the first set, unable to convert significant moments which cost him dearly. Shelton later admitted he did not play his best, saying, "I think he probably would say he didn’t hit his backhand return as well as he wanted to today."
Discussions surrounding Sinner's fitness loomed large as his coach, Darren Cahill, addressed questions about his ability to maintain stamina for the upcoming final. Cahill expressed confidence, recalling Sinner's impressive comeback against Daniil Medvedev during last year’s final, stating, "We don’t have any concern...the best player will win."
Sinner, on the quest to defend his title after his triumph last year, is poised on the precipice of history, potentially becoming the youngest player to successfully defend the Australian Open title since Pete Sampras. The pressure intensifies as he prepares for what promises to be another thrilling encounter with Zverev.
The Australian Open final is scheduled for January 26, 2025, and anticipation is building for this match, pitting the current world No. 1 against the seasoned second seed. Fans expect top-tier tennis as Sinner’s performance gradually improves heading toward the ultimate clash.