Jannik Sinner of Italy was crowned as the men’s singles champion at the Australian Open in Melbourne.

Yesterday the 22-year-old fought back from two-sets down at the Rod Laver Arena to beat Russia's Daniil Medvedev to win a Grand Slam for the first time in his career.

Medvedev was on course for his first Grand Slam title after breezing through the first two sets, but Sinner managed to claim a 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 and 6-3 win.

Sinner, who knocked the 10-time champion, Novak Djokovic, out in the semi-finals, said it was very special to be able to win his first Grand Slam in Australia, and it was important for him to try and improve in each match he played.

“It’s a huge tournament for me. It’s the ‘Happy Slam’, it’s a very, very nice place to be,” said the young Italian star.

“We are trying to get better every day, even during the tournament we try to get stronger, trying to understand every situation a little bit better, and I’m so glad to have you there supporting me, understanding me, which sometimes it’s not easy because I am a little bit young sometimes.

Sinner also thanked Medvedev for putting to the test and lauded him for having an outstanding Grand Slam as well.

“Every match I find something where I can improve, and you make me always a much, much better player.

“Your effort has been awesome throughout the whole tournament – the hours off the court and also today’s effort running for every ball is remarkable to see, so I hope you can also lift this trophy here, I’m sure that you can.” 

On Saturday, Aryna Sabalenka, beat China’s Qinwen Zheng 6-3 and 6-2 as she successfully defended her women's singles title.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport