Jannik Sinner, a 22-year-old rising tennis star, stunned the World No.1 and 24-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic on January 26 (Friday). Sinner defeated Djokovic in four sets 6-1, 6-2, 6-7 (8-6), 6-3 in the men's singles semi-final at the ongoing 2024 Australian Open. It is also important to note that Sinner had defeated Djokovic twice in two weeks at the end of last season, first int he ATP Final and then in David Cup. The head-to-head record between Sinner and Djokovic now stands at 3-4.
The first two sets witnessed an unexpected performance from Djokovic, who made numerous errors, allowing Sinner to dominate with a 6-1, 6-2 lead. Although Djokovic managed to save a match point in the third-set tie-break, Sinner regrouped impressively, securing a 6-1, 6-2, 6-7 (6), 6-3 victory after a marathon three hours and 22 minutes contest.
This defeat marks Djokovic's first loss at the Australian Open after reaching beyond the quarter-finals, breaking his incredible winning streak. The Serbian committed 54 unforced errors and struggled with his serve, unable to force a single break point against Sinner.
Sinner, the fourth seed, advanced to his first grand slam final, making history as the first Italian to achieve this feat at the Australian Open. Djokovic, aiming for a record 25th slam title, must now reflect on his surprising loss, which comes after a challenging tournament marked by illness and a tougher journey to the semi-finals than usual.
The match showcased Sinner's impressive play, maintaining a high level throughout, and Djokovic's unexpected struggle. Despite Djokovic's reputation for pacing himself in best-of-five-sets tennis, Sinner's consistent performance proved too much for the world number one, leading to an unexpected and historic outcome.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Sania Mirza shares one-word message as Indian tennis icon's first reaction after Shoaib Malik's marriage goes viral
Shoaib Malik 'fixing': BPL franchise Fortune Barishal terminate star Pakistan cricketer's contract on suspicion of ‘fixing’
