Jannik Sinner defeated defending champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Australian Open and is in the final of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time. There he will meet either Alexander Zverev or Daniil Medvedev, who will contest the second semi-final (from 9.30 a.m.).
Sinner won the first semi-final in Melbourne on Friday (January 26, 2024) against world number one Djokovic after just under three and a half hours 6:1, 6:2, 6:7, 6:3. For the ten-time Australian Open champion it was the first defeat in Melbourne in 2195 days.
Sinner too stable – not a single break ball for Djokovic
Djokovic had to fend off a match point in the tiebreak of the third set and saved himself in the fourth set. But the Italian remained stable, especially with his service: he didn’t allow a single break point throughout the entire match and in return continued to put Djokovic under pressure. The Serb wobbled in his first serve game, after which Sinner managed the decisive break to make it 3-1.
“It was very hard. During the first two sets I had the feeling that he didn’t really feel comfortable on the court. I just tried to stay focused and keep putting pressure on him. I’m so happy” said the Italian in the court interview after reaching the final in Melbourne. “That leaves me speechless. I can still remember playing the first exhibition matches here. I’m looking forward to my first final” said the world number four and reminded the fans at home that two Italians, Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori, are also reaching for the title in doubles. “I hope you keep your fingers crossed for us.”
Zverev in the semi-finals against Medvedev – from 9.30 a.m. German time
In the second semi-final, Alexander Zverev will fight against Daniil Medvedev in the night session (from 9.30 a.m. in the live ticker) for a place in his second Grand Slam final.