Wednesday, Feb 19 2025 | Time 03:25 Hrs(IST)
Sports


Jannik Sinner defends Melbourne crown in style

Jannik Sinner defends Melbourne crown in style

Melbourne, Jan 26 (UNI) Jannik Sinner reaffirmed his status as World No. 1 with a commanding 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3 victory over Alexander Zverev in the Australian Open final on Rod Laver Arena here on Sunday.
The 23-year-old Italian claimed his third Grand Slam title, successfully defending his Melbourne crown with a performance of unrelenting precision and power.
Sinner’s dominance on the court left no doubt about his supremacy. From the outset, the defending champion imposed himself with blistering groundstrokes and impeccable serving. The first set saw him break Zverev early, setting the tone for a match where the German No. 2 struggled to maintain rhythm.
The second set was more competitive, with Zverev forcing a tiebreak. However, Sinner’s composure under pressure proved decisive. He secured the tiebreak 7-4 with a mini-break, leaving his opponent visibly frustrated.
A pivotal moment came at 5-3 in the first set. Sinner capitalised on Zverev’s unforced errors and broke serve with a stunning down-the-line backhand, drawing applause from the spectators.
Though Zverev exhibited glimpses of brilliance with powerful serves and smartly constructed points, his inconsistency, compounded by struggles with racquet tension, hindered his ability to challenge Sinner effectively.
Both players started strongly, holding serve comfortably. Zverev relied on his trademark aces, while Sinner displayed precision and composure during baseline exchanges. The Italian seized an early break opportunity, only to see Zverev rally back temporarily.
Despite Zverev’s aggressive approach to dictating play, Sinner’s court coverage and relentless shot-making allowed him to dominate key rallies, swinging momentum in his favour.
The second set evolved into a gripping contest. Zverev appeared to find his rhythm, forging a 5-6 lead, but Sinner's resilience forced a tiebreak.
In the tiebreak, Sinner benefited from a stroke of fortune as his forehand clipped the net and dribbled over, giving him a crucial mini-break. From there, he unleashed a series of precise groundstrokes to seal the set at 7-4, silencing Zverev’s resistance.
The third set showcased Sinner at his clinical best. He broke Zverev early to establish a 4-2 lead and maintained his dominance with unerring consistency. Serving for the match at 5-3, Sinner wrapped up proceedings with a precise forehand winner, igniting celebrations on Rod Laver Arena.
For Zverev, the loss was another bitter chapter in his Grand Slam career. The World No. 2, now 0-3 in major finals, failed to capitalise on crucial opportunities and expressed his frustration by smashing his racquet after losing the second set.
This triumph cements Sinner’s position at the pinnacle of men’s tennis. His unmatched consistency and adaptability make him a formidable force across all surfaces.
As the 2025 Australian Open concludes, Sinner’s star shines brighter than ever, heralding a new era in men’s tennis. UNI BDN SSP

More News
Tennis: Murray to continue as Djokovic's coach 'indefinitely'

Tennis: Murray to continue as Djokovic's coach 'indefinitely'

18 Feb 2025 | 10:10 PM

Qatar, Feb 18 (UNI) Novak Djokovic said the partnership with Andy Murray as his coach will continue "indefinitely".

see more..

Rauf fit, bowling with greaet rhythm: Rizwan

18 Feb 2025 | 10:05 PM

Karachi, Feb 18 (UNI) Pacer Haris Rauf, who has not played a single game since picking up an injury in the recent tri-series, is fit and bowling with great rhythm, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan said here on Tuesday on the eve of the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand here.

see more..
J&K UT Wushu Championship: Jammu District wins overall trophy

J&K UT Wushu Championship: Jammu District wins overall trophy

18 Feb 2025 | 9:26 PM

Jammu, Feb 18 (UNI) The District Jammu on Tuesday won an overall trophy on the closing day of the four-day-long Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Wushu Championship held here at Indoor Hall, Bhagwati Nagar.

see more..
Spain defeat India 4-3 in FIH Hockey Pro League

Spain defeat India 4-3 in FIH Hockey Pro League

18 Feb 2025 | 8:20 PM

Bhubaneswar, Feb 18 (UNI) Spain secured a 4-3 victory over India in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 (Women) at the Kalinga Stadium here on Tuesday.

see more..

JN Stadium of Meghalaya 'one of the best football grounds in country': Gawali

18 Feb 2025 | 8:20 PM

Shillong, Feb 18 (UNI) Intensive behind-the-scenes preparations are being undertaken by the Meghalaya government and Meghalaya Football Association as Shillong gears up to host two international football matches featuring the Indian senior men's team in March.

see more..