Jannik Sinner begins his Australian Open title defense with a 7-6(2), 7-6(5), 6-1 win over Nicolas Jarry in the first round.
Jannik Sinner, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic (via X/Forbes)
Jannik Sinner continued from where he stopped last season at the Australian Open by producing another excellent performance against Nicolas Jarry in the first round. The Italian showed composure and great resilience, earning him his 15 straight hard-court match victory. He becomes the fourth men’s player to achieve that after Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Andre Agassi.
Sinner was hoping for an easy opening match against Jarry, but the World No.34 pushed him hard in the first two sets. Though Sinner seemed in control, his opponent got the backing of Chileans in the crowd, who kept chanting his name. The 29-year-old played some of his best tennis in the second set as Sinner had to dig deep to dominate the crucial moment.
After Sinner was 2-0 up in the third set, Jarry failed to react, leaving Sinner to face the finishing line with a 7-6(2), 7-6(5), 6-1 at the Rod Laver Arena. The World No.1 needed 2 hours and 41 minutes to see the match through. The victory was his 15th straight hard-court win in Slams. He now joins the likes of Federer and Djokovic as 1 of 4 men to achieve it since 2000.
Speaking during his press conference in Melbourne, Sinner downplayed the comparison between him, Djokovic, and Federer. The 23-year-old said he was just happy about what he’s achieving on the court.
Additionally, Sinner extended his winning streak to 16 matches dating back to October, with the last 14 victories all ending in straight sets. He is the favorite to defend the Australian Open title, considering his form.
After what Jannik Sinner achieved last season, it is right to say that he’s become an inspiration to several young players coming through the ranks in the ATP. The Italian dominated the men’s circuit, winning eight titles, including two Grand Slam titles. He is now a strong contender to defend the Australian Open title that will see him win his third Grand Slam.
After beating Nicolas Jarry in the first round of the Australian Open, Sinner was asked how he felt, knowing he inspires so many young players. The World No.1 revealed that despite his successes, he has not changed who he is both on and off the court.
Up next at the Australian Open, Sinner will face Aussie wildcard Tristan Schoolkate in the second round. The youngster defeated Taro Daniel 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-1, 6-4 for his first win at his career major event.
