Jannik Sinner landed the Grand Slam title he has lengthy promised with a rare fightback to beat Daniil Medvedev within the Australian Open last.
Italy’s Sinner, 22, trailed by two units earlier than recovering to win 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in his first main last.
Fourth seed Sinner initially couldn’t address the Russian’s tempo however imposed himself as the competition wore on.
It was one other bitter expertise for Medvedev, who additionally blew a two-set lead in opposition to Rafael Nadal within the 2022 last.
A primary-time champion in Melbourne was assured after Sinner knocked out 10-time winner Novak Djokovic within the semi-finals.
Sinner ensured his identify goes on the trophy – fulfilling the expertise that many had predicted would result in a Grand Slam triumph – after an epic match lasting virtually 4 hours.
“It feels nice. I simply need to course of it, I assume, the way it feels the primary time,” Sinner informed Australia’s Channel 9.
“It has been a hell of a journey even when I am nonetheless solely 22.”
Third seed Medvedev, 27, has misplaced 5 of his six main finals, together with ones in opposition to Djokovic in 2021 and Nadal in 2022 at Melbourne Park.
Sinner clinched victory with a forehand winner down the road, falling to his again on the baseline in celebration.
Medvedev trudged across the internet to supply his congratulations earlier than Sinner thumped his coronary heart on his option to have fun together with his workforce.
Trying disconsolate as he tried to course of the loss whereas sitting on his chair, Medvedev managed to present a thumbs-up to the gang after they applauded his efforts.
“It hurts to lose within the last however most likely being within the last is healthier than shedding earlier than,” mentioned Medvedev, who set a report for essentially the most time spent on courtroom at a Grand Slam match with 24 hours and 17 minutes.
“I all the time wish to win and I assume I’ve to attempt more durable subsequent time.”
