Jannik Sinner failed to secure the third consecutive Australian Open crown.
After 19 straight wins in Melbourne, the Italian suffered a heavy 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Novak Djokovic.
NOVAK DJOKOVIC BEATS JANNIK SINNER IN A SEMIFINAL THRILLER 🔥
Djokovic advances to face Carlos Alcaraz for the Australian Open championship 🏆 pic.twitter.com/x4M9wXPAri
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 30, 2026
The two great rivals battled for four hours and nine minutes in the semi-final, with the veteran overcoming all the challenges en route to a notable victory and his 11th Australian Open final.
Sinner missed his chances in the final set and in general, having squandered 16 of 18 break points! He had the upper hand in almost every department and claimed 12 points more than Djokovic, although not the crucial ones.
The Italian praised Novak and his ability to compete at his best at Majors after so many years. He was not surprised by the legend's level and will take the loss as a lesson and the base for further improvements.
Jannik Sinner, Australian Open 2026© Stream screenshot
Jannik claimed sets one and three with a single break to forge the advantage two times. However, Djokovic kept believing in himself and remained competitive.
He introduced a decider and worked hard to stay in touch early on. The 38-year-old defended five break points in back-to-back service games to remain on the positive side.
Sinner lost ground after missed opportunities and experienced a break at 3-3. Djokovic faced issues in the next game and offered his rival three break chances. The legend denied them and held for 5-3.
Novak served for the win at 5-4 and held after a deuce to book his place in the first Major final since July 2024. Jannik will now turn his focus on Roaldn Garros, where he will chase the Career Grand Slam.
Novak Djokovic, Australian Open 2026© Stream screenshot
"I know he has won 24 Majors. We know each other very well and we know how we play. I have always said that I'm not surprised because I feel he has been the best player for many, many years.
Of course, he plays fewer tournaments due to his age and everything else, but we also know how important Majors are for me, for him, for Carlos, and for everyone. There's a little extra motivation, and he played spectacular tennis.
Hopefully, I can draw something positive from this, take it as a lesson, and see where I can improve," Jannik Sinner said.
