Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner endured a dramatic fourth-round match at the Australian Open, defeating Denmark’s Holger Rune 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 to secure his place in the quarterfinals. The clash, held under intense heat at Rod Laver Arena, was filled with interruptions and physical challenges for both players.
During the third set, with temperatures reaching 32°C, Sinner called for medical assistance as his hand trembled and his heart rate needed monitoring. The match saw an unexpected 20-minute halt in the fourth set when Sinner’s bullet-speed serve broke a screw securing the net to the court. Both players left the court while organizers repaired the damage.
Sinner admitted post-match that the break helped him recover from exhaustion, describing the pause as “a blessing in disguise.” Despite feeling dizzy and fatigued at times, the top-ranked player and defending champion pushed through to claim victory.
This win marks another milestone for Sinner, who aims to become the first Italian male to secure three Grand Slam titles. He will face Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals, with a day of rest offering much-needed recovery for the 22-year-old.