Courtesy: Google

Courtesy: Google

World number one and defending champion Jannik Sinner defeated Ben Shelton in the second semi-final of the ongoing Australian Open 2025. With that, the men's singles final will see Jannik Sinner facing Alexander Zverev. Earlier in the day, Zverev reached the final after Novak Djokovic retired hurt during their first semi-final. After beating Shelton, Sinner is now the second-youngest player to win 20 straight hard-court men's singles Grand Slam matches. The first on the list is legendary John McEnroe who tasted the same feat in 1981. What makes this win special for Sinner is, that he survived cramps and secured it in straight sets 7-6(7-2), 6-2, 6-2.

Acknowledging the win and his experience of facing Ben Shelton, Jannik Sinner said, "We've had some tough matches in the past. Anything can happen." Sinner overpowered Shelton in a match that lasted for 2 hours and 26 minutes after his opponent had just 59% of the first serves correct. This was quite a poor stat for Shelton against the player who has been in his best form.

Jannik Sinner exhibited his strong mental and physical form in the semi-final

Despite having health issues, the Italian demonstrated his strong mental and physical strength in the semi-final, scoring 12 consecutive points and dominating Shelton. However, Sinner did face leg cramps while playing the third set, but his determination to win the semi-final was visible regardless.

Sinner's ability to hit accurate shots near the lines helped him to take the ascendency as he put pressure on Shelton despite his fintess concerns. "There was a lot of tension, and I had some slight cramps," Sinner said post-match. "These matches can go very long. Three sets in two-and-a-half hours are quite some time, so I'm happy to finish it in three," he added.

Jannik Sinner will be playing in the men's singles Australian Open final against Alexander Zverev, who has already beaten him four times in their last six meetings.