Sinner wins first major with epic fight back

Monday, 29 January 2024 00:46 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Jannik Sinner

Jannik Sinner landed the Grand Slam title he has long promised with an extraordinary fight back to beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.

Italy’s Sinner, 22, trailed by two sets before recovering to win 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in his first major final.

Fourth seed Sinner initially could not cope with the Russian’s pace but imposed himself as the contest wore on.

It was another bitter experience for Medvedev, who also blew a two-set lead against Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final.

A first-time champion in Melbourne was guaranteed after Sinner knocked out 10-time winner Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.

Sinner ensured his name goes on the trophy, fulfilling the talent that many had predicted would lead to a Grand Slam triumph, after an epic match lasting almost four hours.

“It feels great. I just have to process it, I guess, how it feels the first time,” Sinner told Australia’s Channel Nine.

“It has been a hell of a journey even if I’m still only 22.”

Third seed Medvedev has lost five of his six major finals, including ones against Djokovic in 2021 and Nadal in 2022 at Melbourne Park.

Sinner clinched victory with a forehand winner down the line, falling to his back on the baseline in celebration.

Medvedev trudged around the net to offer his congratulations before Sinner thumped his heart on his way to celebrate with his team. Looking disconsolate as he tried to process the loss while sitting on his chair, Medvedev managed to give a thumbs-up to the crowd when they applauded his efforts.

“It hurts to lose in the final but probably being in the final is better than losing before,” said Medvedev, who set a record for the most time spent on court at a Grand Slam tournament with 24 hours and 17 minutes.

“I always want to win and I guess I have to try harder next time.”

Sinner was brought to the forefront of conversation when discussing Grand Slam champions in 2024 following a stunning end to last season.

A ceiling-breaking ATP 1000 title in Toronto, significant wins over the very best players and inspiring Italy to Davis Cup victory, all increased the belief he would go on to greater things this season.

Sinner has managed to do exactly that in the first major tournament of the year.