Jannik Sinner, the reigning Australian Open champion, showcased resilience as he overcame illness, injuries, and delays to defeat Holger Rune in the fourth round. His victory, marked by a 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 scoreline, extended his 18-match winning streak on hard-court majors. The keyword Australian Open champion underscores Sinner’s determination to defend his title despite obstacles.
Early Struggles and Fitness Challenges
Sinner admitted to facing fitness issues even before stepping onto the court. “It was a strange morning. I didn’t warm up and just tried to stay as fit as I could,” he revealed. The champion mentally braced himself for a grueling match, knowing his physical condition would be tested.
Rune, the No. 13 seed, also entered the match ready for a fight. Both players delivered high-quality tennis, including a jaw-dropping 37-shot rally in the first set, which set the tone for the battle ahead.
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Interruptions and Medical Timeouts
The match saw several interruptions. In the third set, Sinner took a medical timeout to consult with a doctor and physiotherapist. Rune also required treatment for a knee issue during a break, which delayed play for over 11 minutes.
As the fourth set began, a net malfunction caused another unexpected stoppage, halting play for nearly 20 minutes. Despite these disruptions, Sinner stayed composed and maintained his focus.
Sinner’s Strong Finish
Once play resumed, Sinner found his rhythm, dominating the final set. His powerful serves and precise shots gave him the confidence to close out the match. Reflecting on his performance, Sinner said, “I served very well. Quality shots gave me the belief to fight on.”
He also praised the tournament’s organization, adding, “The time off court helped me recover. The team here really takes care of the players, which is great.”
What’s Next for Sinner?
Sinner’s victory keeps his 18-match hard-court streak intact and propels him to the quarterfinals, where he will face either Alex de Minaur or Alex Michelsen. As the Australian Open champion, Sinner aims to continue his remarkable run and defend his title against the world’s best.
This match highlighted Sinner’s ability to overcome adversity, reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s rising stars. With his focus and determination, he remains a formidable contender in Melbourne.
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