World No. 2 Jannik Sinner secured a spot in the Australian Open semifinals by defeating Ben Shelton 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 at Rod Laver Arena. Sinner extended his winning streak to 19 matches at Melbourne Park, setting up a semifinal clash with Novak Djokovic.
Having won nine consecutive matches and 22 straight sets, Sinner faces a tough challenge against Djokovic in the semifinals. The four-time major champion will meet the record 10-time Australian Open winner in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
In a dominant display, Sinner targeted Shelton’s backhand, controlled play from the baseline, and secured a 9-1 lead against the American. Despite Shelton’s efforts, Sinner’s strategic gameplay and consistency proved too much to handle.
Shelton, who had lost only one set en route to the quarterfinals, struggled to match Sinner’s intensity and precision. Sinner’s strong performance, particularly in baseline exchanges, allowed him to maintain his winning record against Shelton in major tournaments.
Sinner’s physical vulnerability towards the end of the match raised concerns, but he managed to secure a crucial break in the third set to seal the victory. Despite a brief dip in energy levels, the Italian regained his composure, broke late in the set, and closed out the match in straight sets.
