Yahoo Sports Dominant Jannik Sinner wins Australian Open again as Alexander Zverev ‘not good enough’ - live
Jannik Sinner defeated Alexander Zverev to win the Australian Open for the second year in a row, as the World No 1 added a third grand slam singles title with a 6-3 7-6 6-3 victory to deny the German his first major.
Sinner, 23, produced a dominant display to defend his crown in Melbourne, claiming a 21st consecutive win at the hard-court grand slams after winning both the Australian Open and US Open last season.
Zverev now has three defeats in his three appearances in grand slam finals. The 27-year-old second seed could not hide his frustration as Sinner won the crucial second-set tiebreak, with the Italian earning a fortunate net-cord on 4-4.
Once firmly ahead, Sinner pressed home his advantage. His serving was meticulous and Sinner did not face a single break point as he closed out a ruthless victory to become the first Italian to win three grand slam singles titles.
“Congratulations to Jannik, you deserve it,” Zverev said. “You are the best player in the world by far. I was hoping to be more competitive today but you are too good, it’s as simple as that.” A despondent Zverev also questioned if he was “good enough” to win a first grand slam.
Follow the latest updates from the Australian Open final in our live blog below:
Jannik Sinner v Alexander Zverev: Australian Open final latest updates
Jannik Sinner defeats Alexander Zverev in straight-sets to win Australian Open
Sinner defends Australian Open title as Zverev loses another major final
Sinner becomes first Italian player to win three grand slam singles titles
Beaten Zverev questions if he is ‘good enough’ to win first grand slam
THIRD SET! Dominant Sinner seals second title with 6-3 7-6 6-3 win
SECOND SET! Sinner wins tiebreak to take two-set lead over Zverev
FIRST SET! Sinner turns it on against Zverev to win opening set 6-3
Alexander Zverev heckled over domestic abuse allegations after Australian Open final loss
15:28 , Jamie Braidwood
Alexander Zverev was heckled over domestic abuse allegations as he prepared to give his runners-up speech after losing the Australian Open final to Jannik Sinner.
The German, 27, lost in straight-sets to World No 1 Sinner and remains without a major after a third grand slam final defeat.
He was in tears at the end of the 6-3 7-6 6-3 loss to Sinner and as he stepped up to receive his runners-up trophy a spectator from the crowd yelled: “Australia believes Olya and Brenda.”
Zverev was forced to pause his speech as the spectator repeatedly shouted towards him, before the fan was ejected from the Rod Laver Arena.
The World No 2 has faced domestic abuse allegations from two former partners in recent years. Zverev has repeatedly denied the allegations.
Alexander Zverev heckled over domestic abuse allegations after Australian Open loss
More grand slams for Jannik Sinner?
15:17 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner says his next step is to improve his performances at the French Open and Wimbledon after underlining his dominance on the hard-court grand slams.
The World No 1 has won three grand slams at the Australian Open and US Open but has not gone past the semi-finals of the French Open and Wimbledon.
“It’s for sure one thing I always think about, no? You have to be a complete player, not only one surface, but on also the other two.
“I believe last year was not a bad season at all on clay and also on grass. I can do better, yes, but let’s see. I mean, these are questions what I can answer by playing in the future.
“For sure we are aiming to get into this rhythm, into the game style, because it’s a bit different game style, especially on grass because it’s a bit different, the movement, and then we see.”
Jannik Sinner ‘proud’ of way he has handled uncertainty
14:57 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner’s recent run is even more impressive given the uncertain future surrounding his two positive doping tests last year. The 23-year-old is set for a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in April that could lead to a one-year ban.
“I’m very proud, it’s actually tough to describe,” Sinner said. “Many, many things happen off the court, some things you maybe don’t know.
“When I go on the court, even if sometimes it’s very difficult to block these kind of things, I have the team and people who are close to me who trust me. That for me is even more important because I can talk very openly with them.
“When I go on court, I try to focus on the match. Obviously also in the gym, trying to stay into your routine, then you think a bit less about what’s happening. Of course, it’s still a little bit in the back of your mind. I know that I’m in this position now. So nothing I can change.
Jannik Sinner: ‘It was an amazing performance from my side’
14:37 , Jamie Braidwood
”I felt like I was in the beginning of the match serving really well and trying to get into the zone very fast. It was a very high-quality from my side. Second set, got a bit lucky in the tiebreak, as we saw.
“All things considered, amazing run again here in Australia. I’m extremely happy. Sharing this with the team here and family and the people I love, it’s amazing.
“I felt like how I entered the court trying to be quite aggressive in the beginning, this gave me then the confidence that I feel the ball in a certain way.
“When you get up one set, this gives you the confidence. As I said, I had the chances in the second set with couple of break points. He always served very well.
”But it’s trying to stay always there mentally, trying to play every point in the best possible way Tiebreak, got a bit lucky there. But how I handled every situation on the court, not only today in the final, but in general, was very nice.”
Jannik Sinner in ‘different universe’ as Alexander Zverev accepts brutal reality
14:17 , Jamie Braidwood
A despondent Alexander Zverev questioned if he was “good enough” to win a grand slam title as Jannik Sinner won a second Australian Open in a row with a dominant straight-sets win in Melbourne.
Zverev was left to admit that World No 1 Sinner is in a “different universe” at the hard-court grand slams after the Italian won third consecutive major on the surface with a ruthless 6-3 7-6 (4) 6-3 victory.
The 23-year-old Sinner also became just the fourth player in the last 35 years to win a men’s grand slam final without facing a break-point, as Zverev conceded that he was “completely outplayed” and compared the Italian to Novak Djokovic “at his best”.
Jannik Sinner in ‘different universe’ as Alexander Zverev accepts brutal reality
Jannik Sinner in ‘different universe’, admits Alexander Zverev
13:52 , Jamie Braidwood
Alexander Zverev says Jannik Sinner is in a “different universe” to the top-10 players in the world when they meet on hard courts.
“By far the best. I mean, the facts speak for themselves. He's won all the Grand Slams on hard courts since last year.
“I think the facts speak for themselves. He's in a different universe right now to anyone else.
“Today he completely outplayed me. From the back of the court, completely outplayed me. As I said, I'm serving better than him, but that's it.
“He does everything else better than me. He moves better than me. He hits his forehand better than me. He hits his backhand better than me. He returns better than me. He volleys better than me. At the end of the day, tennis has five or six massive shots, like massive factors, and he does four or five of them better than me. That's the reason why he won. He deserved to win today.”
Jannik Sinner’s words to Alexander Zverev after Australian Open
13:32 , Jamie Braidwood
Alexander Zverev reveals that Jannik Sinner told him he is “too good” not to win a grand slam after the German questioned himself after the defeat.
“I was quite down. I was quite emotional also in that stage. I think he saw that,” Zverev said. “He said that I will definitely lift one of those trophies in my career. I'm too good not to. That's his words.
“It was a little bit of a tough moment for me because I really went in the final and also the preparation today, I really thought I had a very good chance because I was feeling good. I was feeling the ball quite well. I was feeling like I can compete.
“So it was just a difficult moment for me. I mean, now for the third time, seeing somebody lift the trophy, me standing next to that is difficult because there's nothing more I want than to be able to hold one of those trophies in my hands.”
Italian history for Jannik Sinner
13:22 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner is the first Italian male or female player to win three singles grand slam titles in tennis history.
Hard-court king of men’s tennis Jannik Sinner crowned Australian Open champion
13:07 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner cemented his status as the hard-court king of men’s tennis with his second-consecutive Australian Open title.
The world number one defeated Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6 (4) 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, making him the first Italian man or woman to hold three grand slam singles titles.
Sinner has not lost a match on hard courts at a major since a defeat by Zverev in the fourth round of the US Open in 2023, following up his maiden title here last year by winning in New York.
A repeat never looked on the cards, with Sinner showcasing all the qualities that have made him virtually untouchable on the surface.
Report from Eleanor Crooks
Hard-court king of men’s tennis Jannik Sinner crowned Australian Open champion
Jannik Sinner thanks his team after Australian Open win
12:52 , Jamie Braidwood
“To my team, what can I say. We worked a lot to be again in this position. It is an amazing feeling to share this moment with all of you. It is amazing to achieve these things and to share this with you guys. Darren [Cahill], it is probably, maybe your last Australian Open as a coach - I will try to convince you [to carry on] - and it is an honour to share this trophy with you. And Simone [Vagnozzi], you are an amazing combination of coaches. Thank you so much.”
Jannik Sinner sets records on way to Australian Open title
12:37 , Jamie Braidwood
Some stats on Sinner’s dominant second Australian Open title, via OptaAce.
Sinner is the fifth player in the Open Era to win three consecutive men’s singles titles at hard-court grand slams, joining Djokovic, Federer, Lendl and McEnroe.
Sinner is the fourth player in the last 35 years not to face a single break point in a grand slam final, joining Nadal, Federer and Sampras
Sinner has now won 47 of his first 50 matches as World No 1, joining Borg and Connors as the most of all time.
Sinner is the first player in over 50 years to claim 10 consecutive straight-sets wins against top-10 opponents
Jannik Sinner: ‘I know I can raise my level’
12:28 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner, speaking to Discovery+ and Eurosport, on what won him the match today.
“I felt like I was starting the match very well, feeling the ball well and playing aggressive. The second set could have gone both ways but I had break point chances and he served very well. In the third set I tried to search for the break. I served very well today.
“I do struggle sometimes inside. Tennis you have some days where you feel worse but every day is different. I know I can raise my level every day and that’s what I was searching for. I tried to stay focused. I’m well prepared for tough battles and I have shown that in the two weeks.”
Alexander Zverev questions if he is ‘good enough’ after defeat
12:25 , Jamie Braidwood
A tough day for Alexander Zverev, who said in his post-match speech that he is “not good enough” to beat World No 1 Sinner.
The 27-year-old added: “I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to lift the trophy but I will keep coming back and trying. I will see you guys next year.”
Jannik Sinner admits he got ‘lucky’ in second-set tiebreak
12:18 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner, speaking to Discovery+ and Eurosport, on the difference between his first and second Australian Open titles.
“Coming here as defending champion is always different, you feel the pressure. Every match has been tough. In the finals, the pressure is different. It’s a tough day for Sascha, he had already some tough grand slam finals. I get lucky in the second-set tiebreak on the net-cord. I can feel for him. He was down, I tried to pick him up a bit but it’s tough.
“From my side, I’m very, very happy.”
Australian Open final: Key match stats
12:05 , Jamie Braidwood
1st serve in: Sinner 60% - 68% Zverev
1st serve points won: Sinner 84% - 69% Zverev
2nd serve points won: Sinner 63% - 50% Zverev
Aces: Sinner 6-12 Zverev
Double faults: Sinner 2-2 Zverev
Winners: Sinner 32 - 25 Zverev
Unforced errors: Sinner 27 - 45 Zverev
Break points won: Sinner 2/10 - 0/0 Zverev
Total points won: Sinner 107 - 83 Zverev
Back-to-back Australian Open titles for Jannik Sinner
11:57 , Jamie Braidwood
2024 meets 2025. Jannik Sinner keeps his hands on the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup.
Champion Jannik Sinner speaks after Australian Open win
11:55 , Jamie Braidwood
Since turning World No 1, Jannik Sinner has got quite used to giving victory speeches. Here’s the champion:
“I would like to start with Sascha. A tough day for you. You are an amazing player. Keep beleiving in yourself, we all know how strong you are not only as a player but also a person. So keep it up, we all believe you can win one of these very, very soon.
“My team, what can I say. We worked so hard to be in this position. It’s amazing to achieve this things but mostly to share them with you guys. Darren [Cahill] I know this might be your last Australian Open, I’m happy we can win the trophy.
“This is an amazing tournament, for me the most special grand slam. Thank you so much.”
Alexander Zverev speaks after Australian Open final defeat
11:50 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev turns to his team and thanks them for their work.
“We are trying to do all the right work, I’m just not good enough,” Zverev says. “It’s as simple as that.
“But I appreciate what everyone has done, back from my ankle injury to World No 2 and playing grand slam finals again.”
Alexander Zverev speaks after Australian Open final defeat
11:48 , Jamie Braidwood
Strange moment as Zverev pauses before speaking, due to a screaming heckler in the crowd. Not sure what was going on.
“First of all, it sucks standing here next to this and not being able to touch it. But congratulations to Jannik, you deserve it, you are the best player in the world by far. I was hoping to be more competitive today but you are too good, it’s as simple as that. You have done all the right things, all the right work, and nobody deserves this title more.”
Classy words from Zverev in defeat.
JANNIK SINNER WINS AUSTRALIAN OPEN
11:38 , Jamie Braidwood
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 6-3 Alexander Zverev
Since going two sets down to Daniil Medvedev in last year’s Australian Open final, Jannik Sinner has won nine sets in a row in grand slam finals.
There was a sense of inevitability about his win today over Alexander Zverev, similar to his straight-sets win over Taylor Fritz at the US Open final.
Sinner is so consistent, so calm. Like the best champions, he finds a way to raise his level in the biggest moments.
JANNIK SINNER WINS AUSTRALIAN OPEN
11:35 , Jamie Braidwood
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 6-3 Alexander Zverev
The heartbreak in grand slam finals continues for Zverev. But to be honest, there was not a lot he could have done against Sinner today. Zverev did not look at a single break point.
Three grand slam finals, three defats. But it’s not like his defeats in the US Open final in 2020 or Carlos Alcaraz last year. Zverev did not lead once. But perhaps that hurts even more.
JANNIK SINNER WINS AUSTRALIAN OPEN
11:29 , Jamie Braidwood
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 6-3 Alexander Zverev
A second Australian Open in a row for Sinner! A third grand slam title! He raises his arms after finding the backhand winner and looks to the sky!
Zverev crosses the net to congratulate the World No 1! He becomes the first Italian man to win a third grand slam title. And that was just so dominant. He’s World No 1 for a reason.
He hugs his team and climbs into the players’ box to see his family. Huge smiles from those in the Sinner camp, and they better get used to this.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:28 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 5-3 Alexander Zverev
Huge point on 30-30, on the second serve. But Zverev makes another forehand error, pushing wide in the rally!
MATCH POINT. CHAMPIONSHIP POINT.
Drop shot from Sinner... Zverev reaches it... Sinner finds the backhand winner!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:26 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 5-3 Alexander Zverev
Sinner loses the first point on serve, missing the forehand. Not the ideal start and a rare glimmer of hope for Zverev.
But Sinner responds with the forehand winner down the line! Cool, calm. Just what we expect from Sinner.
15-15. ACE FROM SINNER. Right on the line down the middle. He moves two points away. Zverev needs a miracle.
He gets a forehand miss from Sinner! Zverev recovered well there in that rally, and digs in to get to 30-30.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:23 , Jamie Braidwood
ZVEREV HOLDS! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 5-3 Alexander Zverev
Over to Sinner. He will serve for the Australian Open title.
Down 40-0, Sinner cracks a forehand winner past Zverev. Sinner nets on the next return.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:19 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER HOLDS! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 5-2 Alexander Zverev*
Sinner moves a game away, but only after Zverev takes him to deuce in a longer game than those he has faced so far.
With Sinner closing on the game at 40-15, Zverev launches back with a thumping forehand winner down the line. Another attack from Zverev on the forehand, and Sinner nets to bring up deuce.
But Zverev still can’t force a break point. Sinner finds the first serve up the middle. Zverev goes long on the next return.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:12 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER BREAKS! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 4-2 Alexander Zverev
Sinner pumps his fist as he strikes first against the Zverev serve, and then the German goes long to bring up 0-30.
Ace from Zverev out wide, but he slumps over his knees as he nets on the forehand! Two break points coming up for Sinner.
He has to hold serve here to stand a chance. Sinner is sent deep, and Zverev finds the backhand pass down the line. One saved.
Depth from Sinner to the Zverev forehand... and long from the German! Sinner breaks ahead - and based on what we’ve seen so far, that could be as good as match point.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:06 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER HOLDS! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 3-2 Alexander Zverev*
Another Sinner love-hold. He’s won around 80% of his points on serve, hardly giving Zverev a chance in most of the games. Sinner’s also been able to win the first point on serve in a lot of them. It’s been so dominant.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
11:03 , Jamie Braidwood
ZVEREV HOLDS! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 2-2 Alexander Zverev
Zverev lands a tricky, spinny second serve down the middle when in a spot of bother on 0-15. The German closes it out from there.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:59 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER HOLDS! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 2-1 Alexander Zverev*
Another remarkable Sinner point adds to Zverev’s frustration, with the Italian turning defence into attack and blasting another forehand into the body.
Zverev can’t make the volley and Sinner holds to love, with a clean winner inside the lines.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:56 , Jamie Braidwood
ZVEREV HOLDS! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 1-1 Alexander Zverev
Across both sets, Zverev has won just 67% of his first-serve points. Sinner has been so effective on the returns, while giving away nothing on his own serve.
Zverev is looking pretty dejected. But he holds to start of the third set, finding six first serves in a row.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:51 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER HOLDS! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 1-0 Alexander Zverev*
Well, Sinner won in five sets in last year’s Australian Open final. But the World No 1 was two sets down, not two sets up. The 23-year-old will want to wrap this up now and not give Zverev a sniff at the comeback.
And the Italian flashes a beautiful backhand pass on the slide on his way to getting the opening hold.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:45 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER WINS SECOND SET! Jannik Sinner 6-3 7-6 Alexander Zverev
ACE from Sinner. Two set points for the Italian!
And he takes the two-set lead! Sinner paints the line with a forehand winner! A beauty of a forehand winner to take the tiebreak.
Zverev is so upset. His smashes his rackets into his bag. Obviously, that net-cord must be playing in his mind, as well as Sinner finding the line on set-point.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:43 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-6 Alexander Zverev - TIEBREAK
HUGE first serve from Sinner to get 4-3 ahead. But the Italian would want his return back on the next point, opening his racket to send the forehand out on the Zverev second serve!
Sinner with the dead net-cord! Huge slice of luck for Sinner as his forehand strike clips the top of the net and leaves Zverev beaten! A big swing, and Sinner will have a 5-4 lead, with two serves to come.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:41 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-6 Alexander Zverev - TIEBREAK
Zverev plays close to the lines and comes out on top in the long rally, to earn the first mini-break against the Sinner serve.
But Zverev then hands it straight back as he pushes long on the forehand. An unforced error from Zverev at a critical time.
Sinner steps inside the baseline and Zverev fires out on the forehand! Zverev is frustrated with that.
Now Sinner has the chance to move a step ahead. Zverev finds the return, but Sinner squeezes out the error on the forehand
3-3 at the change of ends.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:36 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-6 Alexander Zverev - TIEBREAK
Just ridiculous numbers from Sinner when he finds his first serve. The Italian has won 15 points in a row in this second set when he gets his first serve in play. A few more of them in the tiebreak and he will like his chances of moving two sets up.
Both players have won three tiebreaks during their run to the Australian Open final.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:35 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-6 Alexander Zverev
Sinner picks a bad time for his second double fault of the match and then slumps a drop shot into the net. Zverev has a look at 30-30 after Sinner lead 30-0.
Sinner’s first serves have disappeared all of a sudden... POINT OF THE MATCH! EXTRAORDINARY, SINNER WINS AN EPIC RALLY!
Amazing. Sinner went back to the drop shot, but Zverev found the lob and then put Sinner on the back foot. Sinner moves so well, though, and finds the backhand winner down the line.
Zverev nets and Sinner passes a bit test to get through to the tiebreak!
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:28 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 5-6 Alexander Zverev
Zverev gets through to a tiebreak at least. A massive forehand strike gets him over the line. Sinner will have to hold to join him.
There are signs Zverev is looking a bit more comfortable in the final, and in deadling with the longer points.
Sinner loves to step it up in the tiebreaks, though. If he can get there.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:24 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 6-3 5-5 Alexander Zverev*
Oh but look at this! Zverev is able to get to 0-30, as the Italian can’t find the first serves and makes a couple of errors!
Suddenly Zverev is two points from the set, but Sinner controls the forehand winner and then slams the serve down the middle. Zverev can only get a racket to it.
Another first serve from Sinner - he has not lost a point on it all set. Game point: Zverev nets on the backhand!
Sinner holds with four points in a row from 0-30.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:19 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 4-5 Alexander Zverev
Zverev gets his easiest hold for a while and moves a game away from the second set. Technically, there is more pressure now on the Sinner serve but he has been unflappable so far. A tiebreak is looking likely.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:16 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 6-3 4-4 Alexander Zverev*
If Zverev is seeing signs of physical wear from Sinner between games, there’s no evidence during points. The World No 1 finds the forehand pass on the opening point and cruises to another hold.
Zverev has to make this match as long as possible but Sinner is ticking off the service games very comfortably.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:11 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 3-4 Alexander Zverev
It was at this stage in the first set where Sinner started to pull away. Zverev produces the ace but Sinner finds a great angle on the crosscourt backhand to look at 30-30.
He’ll get a look at a second serve too. Sinner goes for the drop shot... but there’s not enough on it and Zverev makes the backhand down the line.
And Zverev closes out the hold with a wicked body serve that jumped up at Sinner. The Italian goes long.
And once again, Sinner looks a bit uncomfortable returning to his bench. He holds at his upper left leg, in the hamstring area.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:06 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 6-3 3-3 Alexander Zverev*
Finally some joy for Zverev against the Sinner serve. The Italian makes his first double fault of the match and then Zverev finds a long rally, holding firm on the baseline as Sinner nets.
Sinner turns to the drop shot for the second time in this game. Zverev can’t reach it in time, and nets. Zverev swipes again, as he nets on the slice. Sinner holds and is yet to face a break point behind serve.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
10:00 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 2-3 Alexander Zverev
Zverev is starting to take swipes of frustration, as the unforced errors rack up. But he steadies on serve after making a double fault. On 40-30, he follows in his forehand and ducks as Sinner goes long on the backhand.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:56 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 6-3 2-2 Alexander Zverev*
Sinner looks fine as his first serve finds its mark and gets the forehand strike into play. He holds to love as Zverev pushes long on the backhand return.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:52 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 1-2 Alexander Zverev
Sinner can’t keep the angled volley in play as Zverev gets out of trouble behind serve on deuce to get the hold.
Was that a slight limp from Sinner as he sat down on the changeover?
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:50 , Jamie Braidwood
Break points saved! Jannik Sinner 6-3 1-1 Alexander Zverev*
More problems for Zverev at the net! Sinner is just blasting the ball at Zverev when he approaches, and the volleys are breaking down.
0-30. Sinner worked himself in a strong position with the depth to Zverev’s backhand, but then nets on the forehand.
DOUBLE FAULT from Zverev! What a time to make your first double fault of the match, as it brings up two break points.
Oooof. Zverev controls the smash and keeps it inside the baseline, but only just. One saved. Sinner asks questions as he slides on the defence. Zverev puts away a second smash.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:46 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 6-3 1-1 Alexander Zverev*
Sinner won 79% of points on serve in the first set. If you’re winning four of every five, you’re going to get routine holds.
And that’s exactly what he does in the opening game of the second. Zverev needs to try doing something different on the returns, as he’s not makinng an impact at all.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:41 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 6-3 0-1 Alexander Zverev
Sinner’s win predictor rating jumped up to 90% after winning the first set. For Zverev, this second-set is must-win.
On 40-15, he balloons a smash standing over the net, putting it a few feet long the baseline. But Zverev steadies as he finds an ace.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:37 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER WINS FIRST SET! Jannik Sinner 6-3 Alexander Zverev*
Sinner was able to win 85% of his first-set points, compared to Zverev’s 62%. That’s a big difference on the returns, with the World No 1 seeing six break point opportunities to Zverev’s zero. Sinner only required the one break.
Zverev is struggling a bit at the net, winning just five of his 10 approaches.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:34 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER WINS FIRST SET! Jannik Sinner 6-3 Alexander Zverev*
Incredible defence from Sinner! Zverev was throwing everything at Sinner on 15-0, but the Italian stands strong on his forehand corner, showing incredible movement.
And the World No 1 is really turning it on now! He comes into the net, dancing across the tape as he puts away a volley into the corner.
Three set points: ACE FROM SINNER! He takes the first set, really turning it on in the business end of the opener.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:30 , Jamie Braidwood
SINNER BREAKS ! *Jannik Sinner 5-3 Alexander Zverev
Zverev produces his fastest speeds on the deuce points, but can’t get the game over the line.
On the third deuce, Sinner attacks! He stretches and flicks the backhand winner down the line.
Another break point. Zverev left Sinner with a window, but he can’t find the forehand crosscourt.
Another longer rally goes Sinner’s way. As he finds the return, Zverev goes long on the backhand.
A fourth break point of the set... and this time Sinner takes it!
Zverev almost stopped when a forehand caught the line... Sinner kept playing. He thunders the forehand at Zverev when he comes into the net. Zverev can’t make the volley!
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:23 , Jamie Braidwood
Break points saved: Jannik Sinner 4-3 Alexander Zverev*
Chance for Sinner. Has Zverev lost a bit of focus? His forehand misfires behind the baseline, and Sinner will have a look at 0-30.
Zverev finds the wide serve, which Sinner can’t reach on the stretch. Another first serve, but Sinner returns! Volley from Zverev, but Sinner finds the forehand pass down the line!
Two break points: huge first serve from Zverev to save the first, as he thumps the smash beyond Sinner.
Sinner can’t return on the second! Deuce.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:20 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner 4-3 Alexander Zverev*
At the changeover, Zverev is furious because his rackets have not been delivered from the stringer.
“I asked for it an hour before the match,” he moans to the umpire. Some of the most drama we’ve seen so far, to be honest.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:18 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 4-3 Alexander Zverev*
Sinner looked to be heading towards a routine hold after popping a volley over the net to get to 30-0.
But a couple of errors from Sinner hands Zverev a look at 30-30, only for the Italian to close the door with an ace.
Zverev nets on the forehand and Sinner moves ahead once more.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 3-3 Alexander Zverev
Sinner had a chance there to look at the Zverev second serve, but can’t keep his return in play.
Zverev finds his third ace of the match to move to 40-15. And another!
3-3.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:09 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 3-2 Alexander Zverev*
Zverev has a half-opening on 0-15, but the German taps out of a couple of longer rallies with forehand errors, as Sinner stays solid.
But Sinner can’t wrap the game up, pushing the backhand long and then finding the net as the low volley. Zverev whipped the pass down low and made it awkward
Deuce. Zverev attacks the Sinner second serve but the Italian stands up to it, he finds the angle to get Zverev wide onto his forehand, and the German misses.
Sinner holds an eight-minute game as Zverev goes long on the backhand. Zverev couldn’t stay in the longer rallies there but he got his first look at the Italian’s service game.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
09:01 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 2-2 Alexander Zverev
A chance for Sinner as Zverev nets on the forehand. He will face 0-30.
Zverev steps in behind serve to thump the smash, but he can’t take control of the next exchange! Zverev takes on the drop shot but Sinner reaches it and finds the backhand pass!
Two break points: huge serve from Zverev out wide on the first. Zverev goes wide again on the first serve, Sinner can’t return the wide forehand into the opposite side.
Well played Zverev as he goes to the Sinner forehand and steps into the net, putting the volley away. He holds, and passes his first test of the final.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:55 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 2-1 Alexander Zverev*
Awesome hitting from Sinner and Zverev, as the Italian wins a 23-shot rally when Zverev pushes long on the forehand. Back Sinner to win the long exchanges today.
And he’s now won eight points in a row on serve. Zverev can’t return.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:53 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev holds! *Jannik Sinner 1-1 Alexander Zverev
We see the first rallies of the final in the opening Zverev service game. The German wins the first couple, and then Sinner finds his first winner with the backhand switched out wide.
Zverev holds with a couple of strong first serves.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:48 , Jamie Braidwood
Sinner holds! Jannik Sinner 1-0 Alexander Zverev*
Strong start by Sinner on serve. This may be a theme of the first set, with Sinner and Zverev rock solid. Sinner starts with an ace and wins three more points in a row to hold to love.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:46 , Jamie Braidwood
*Jannik Sinner 0-0 Alexander Zverev
The win predictor gives it to Sinner, by 77%. It was wrong yesterday as Madison Keys defeated Aryna Sabalenka! Will we see the upset today, or can Sinner defend? We’re underway!
*denotes next server
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:39 , Jamie Braidwood
Zverev steps out first, then followed by the World No 1 and defending champion Sinner. Lots of Italian flags in the Rod Laver Arena, but a few German colours as well.
Zverev wins the toss and elects to receive, just as he did in his semi-final against Novak Djokovic.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:36 , Jamie Braidwood
Here we go! Alexander Zverev stands tall in the tunnel, as Jannik Sinner does some sprints from side to side behind him. Almost ready to step out onto the Rod Laver Arena!
In the UK, the Australian Open will be broadcast live on Eurosport. Subscribers can also stream the action online on the Eurosport website or with the discovery+ app.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:30 , Jamie Braidwood
Contrasting emotions of grand slam finals
Jannik Sinner, 23, and Alexander Zverev, 27, are both playing in their third grand slam final today.
The big difference is Sinner already has two titles and Zverev is regarded as the best player in the world without one.
Sinner won his first grand slam 12 months ago when he defeated Daniil Medvedev from two sets down in the Australian Open final, before then destroying Taylor Fritz in the US Open final.
Zverev stood two points away from a grand slam triumph almost five years ago at the US Open, but lost from two sets up against Dominic Thiem.
He then lost his second grand slam final against Carlos Alcaraz last June, also from a winning position in the French Open final.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
08:20 , Jamie Braidwood
What has Jannik Sinner said about Alexander Zverev?
“Very tough match. We had some very tough matches in the past. He is an incredible player and is looking for his first major. There is going to be a lot of tension but I’m happy to put myself in this position, Sundays are special days at tournaments. I’m going to enjoy it. Hopefully it’s going to be a good match.”
What has Alexander Zverev said about Jannik Sinner?
“I think Jannik has been the best player in the world for the past 12 months. There’s no doubt about it. Won two Grand Slams. Has been very, very stable in those regards. So definitely one of the best players in the world.”
Jannik Sinner’s route to Australian Open final
08:10 , Jamie Braidwood
R1: Nicolas Jarry, 7-6 7-6 6-1
R2: Tristan Schoolkate, 4-6 6-4 6-1 6-3
R3: Marcos Giron, 6-3 6-4 6-2
R4: Holger Rune (13), 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-2
QF: Alex de Minaur (8), 6-3 6-2 6-1
SF: Ben Shelton (21), 7-6 6-2 6-2
Jannik Sinner vs Alexander Zverev head-to-head
08:00 , Jamie Braidwood
Alexander Zverev’s route to Australian Open final
R1: Lucas Pouille, 6-4 6-4 6-4
R2: Pedro Martinez, 6-1 6-4 6-1
R3: Jacob Fearnley, 6-3 6-4 6-4
R4: Ugo Humbert (14), 6-1 2-6 6-3 6-2
QF: Tommy Paul (12), 7-6 7-6 2-6 6-1
SF: Novak Djokovic (7), 7-6 ret.
Novak Djokovic ‘liked his chances’ of winning Australian Open
07:45 , Jamie Braidwood
Novak Djokovic said he “liked his chances” of reaching the Australian Open final if he was physically fit and says he now wants Alexander Zverev to lift his first grand slam title.
“I actually thought I played really well, as well as I played the last 12 months, to be honest,” Djokovic said.
“Of course, it was never going to be an easy battle, an easy match for me. Neither it was for Sascha, even if I was not injured.
“But as I said, I think I was striking the ball very well. A lot of positives to take in terms of how I reached the semi-finals. It’s a very good result considering the circumstances.
“But it’s not satisfying to me, for my standards. I always look for the highest goal, to reach the finals and fight for a trophy.”
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
07:30 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner is bidding to back up last year’s first grand slam triumph and the Italian is on a 20-match winning run at the hard-court grand slams having won the Australian Open and US Open titles last season and now reaching another major final.
The last player to beat Sinner at either the Australian Open or US Open was Alexander Zverev, after the German won a five-setter at Flushing Meadows in 2023. Zverev has won four of the six matches he has played against Sinner.
“Very tough match,” the Italian said after beating Ben Shelton in the semi-finals.
“We had some very tough matches in the past. He is an incredible player and is looking for his first major. There is going to be a lot of tension but I’m happy to put myself in this position. I’m going to enjoy it. Hopefully it’s going to be a good match.”
Novak Djokovic declares Australian Open final favourite: ‘I’ll be cheering for him’
07:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Novak Djokovic has declared Alexander Zverev as his favourite for the Australian Open despite the German facing defending champion Jannik Sinner in the final.
Zverev progressed to his first Australian Open final after Djokovic retired injured following their semi-final on Friday, with the 10-time champion struggling with a torn muscle in his upper left leg.
Zverev is bidding to win his first grand slam title after defeats to Dominic Thiem in the 2020 US Open final and Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open final and Djokovic said the 27-year-old “deserves” his breakthrough major win.
Zverev told the Australian Open crowd to be more “respectful” after Djokovic was booed by some sections of the crowd following his abrupt retirement from the semi-final.
Djokovic said he “liked his chances” of beating Zverev if he was fully fit but the 37-year-old was full of praise for the second seed after he advanced to the final.
“I wish Sascha all the best,” Djokovic said. “He deserves his first slam. I’ll be cheering for him. Hopefully he can get it.”
Alexander Zverev tells off crowd in display of sportsmanship
07:00 , Jamie Braidwood
Alexander Zverev spoke up for Novak Djokovic after his decision to retire from his semi-final after the first set was booed by sections of the Rod Laver Arena crowd.
“The very first thing I want to say is please don’t boo a player when he goes out injured,” said Zverev, who was forced to retire from a French Open semi-final against Rafael Nadal after tearing ankle ligaments three years ago.
“I know that everybody paid for tickets and wants to see a five-set match but you have got to understand Novak Djokovic is somebody that has given this sport for the past 20 years absolutely everything in his life.
“He has won his tournament with an abdominal tear, won this tournament with a hamstring tear, if he feels he cannot continue a tennis match, he cannot continue a tennis match. So please guys, be respectful. Show some love for Novak as well.”
Jannik Sinner on mentality after reaching second Australian Open semi-final
06:45 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner was asked if he ever feels “unbeatable” after reaching a second Australian Open final and extending his winning run at the hard-court grand slams to 20 matches.
“No,” he replied. “I know that I put a lot of work in. I know I just try to stay calm, never taking things as granted. Just well-prepared, to be honest.
“I had a tough off-season. We tried to put a lot of work in there. Every day it’s a routine to get better. That’s it.
“[World No 1] is obviously it’s a great position to be in. Back of my head I also know that I’m 23 years old, and I am not perfect, no?
“I know that I have things still to improve. I have certain areas where I can get better. That’s why we work for, no?
“Every day is a big challenge. Every day you have a different opponent. You try to understand what’s happening.
“Sometimes you have some issues and then trying to understand that whatever works best for that day and trying to go for it, no? Everyone makes mistakes, no? Nobody’s perfect.”
Jannik Sinner vs Alexander Zverev head-to-head
06:30 , Jamie Braidwood
2024: Cincinnati, semi-final, hard court: Sinner won 7-6 5-7 7-6
2023: US Open, round of 16, hard court: Zverev won 6-4 3-6 6-2 4-6 6-3
2022: Monte Carlo, quarter-final, clay: Zverev won 5-7 6-3 7-6
2021: US Open, round of 16, hard court: Zverev won 6-4 6-4 7-6
2020: Cologne, semi-final, hard court: Zverev won 7-6 6-3
2020: French Open, round of 16, clay Sinner won 6-3 6-4 4-6 6-3
Aryna Sabalenka smashes racket after Australian Open final defeat to Madison Keys
06:18 , Jamie Braidwood
Aryna Sabalenka was unable to hide her frustration after losing the Australian Open final to Madison Keys as the World No 1 smashed up her racket following the handshake at the net.
Sabalenka, 26, was bidding to win her fourth grand slam title and third Australian Open in a row but was stunned by Keys, who capped a sensational run with her first major title at the age of 29.
With the final heading towards a match tiebreak, Keys managed to break Sabalenka’s serve to win a thrilling final 6-3 2-6 7-5, with the American landing a forehand winner on match point.
Aryna Sabalenka smashes racket after Australian Open final defeat to Madison Keys
How Madison Keys overcame the doubts to finally achieve grand slam breakthrough
06:17 , Jamie Braidwood
Madison Keys dethroned Aryna Sabalenka to become the oldest first-time winner of the women’s singles title at the Australian Open.
World number one Sabalenka was bidding to become the first woman since Martina Hingis in the late 1990s to win three straight titles at Melbourne Park.
But American Keys, who seemed destined never to achieve the grand slam title that had been predicted when she turned professional aged only 14, followed up her upset of second seed Iga Swiatek in the semi-finals by claiming a 6-3 2-6 7-5 victory.
How Madison Keys overcame the doubts to finally achieve grand slam breakthrough
Jannik Sinner vs Alexander Zverev head-to-head
06:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Despite his World No 1 ranking, Jannik Sinner trails the head-to-head to Alexander Zverev with the German winning four of their six previous meetings.
While Sinner was the victor the last time they played - in three tight sets in the Cincinnati semi-finals last year - Zverev has won the previous four, including in the last-16 of the US Open in 2023.
That five-set match was the last time Sinner lost a grand slam match on a hard court, with the Italian winning the Australian Open and US Open titles in 2024.
Sinner vs Zverev: Australian Open final updates
06:01 , Jamie Braidwood
When is Jannik Sinner vs Alexander Zverev?
The Australian Open men’s final will begin just after 8:30am GMT (UK time) on Sunday 26 January.
How can I watch the Australian Open?
In the UK, the Australian Open will be broadcast live on Eurosport. Subscribers can also stream the action online on the Eurosport website or with the discovery+ app.
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Good morning
06:00 , Jamie Braidwood
Jannik Sinner faces Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open final as the World No 1 bids for back-to-back men’s singles titles in Melbourne.
Sinner won his first grand slam at the Australian Open 12 months ago when he came from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev and the Italian has since underlined his status as the best player in the world.
Zverev progressed to a first Australian Open final after an injured Novak Djokovic dramatically retired from their semi-final on Friday, but the German has backed up his position of World No 2 and is a strong contender to win his first grand slam.
The big-serving 27-year-old has the advantage of playing just 82 minutes against Djokovic, while Sinner needed much longer to defeat Ben Shelton and did not finish his semi-final until after midnight local time.
Zverev, though, has his demons in grand slam finals, losing the US Open final from two sets up to Dominic Thiem in 2020 and the French Open final from two sets to one up against Carlos Alcaraz last June.
Sinner, 23, has won 13 matches in a row at Melbourne Park and now has the chance to add his third grand slam title, after also winning the US Open last September
Jannik Sinner in ‘different universe’ as Alexander Zverev accepts brutal reality
14:55 , Jamie Braidwood
A despondent Alexander Zverev questioned if he was “good enough” to win a grand slam title as Jannik Sinner won a second Australian Open in a row with a dominant straight-sets win in Melbourne.
Zverev was left to admit that World No 1 Sinner is in a “different universe” at the hard-court grand slams after the Italian won third consecutive major on the surface with a ruthless 6-3 7-6 (4) 6-3 victory.
The 23-year-old Sinner also became just the fourth player in the last 35 years to win a men’s grand slam final without facing a break-point, as Zverev conceded that he was “completely outplayed” and compared the Italian to Novak Djokovic “at his best”.
Jannik Sinner in ‘different universe’ as Alexander Zverev accepts brutal reality
