Photo: ReutersThe match swung in his favour when the tournament invoked its extreme heat policy, allowing the stadium's roof to shut and Sinner to rally for a dramatic 4-6 6-3 6-4 6-4 win. Djokovic opened the evening session on Rod Laver Arena in much better conditions, the Serb defeating dangerous Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-4 7-6(4) to continue his hunt for a record 25th Grand Slam title. On a day dominated by Americans, eighth seed Ben Shelton delivered another victory for the Stars and Stripes, beating Valentin Vacherot 6-4 6-4 7-6(5). Seasoned campaigner Marin Cilic exited after a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-5 loss to 12th seed Casper Ruud. WAWRINKA GOES DOWN FIGHTINGSwiss veteran Stan Wawrinka bowed out of his last Australian Open, the three-times Grand Slam winner losing 7-6(5) 2-6 6-4 6-4 to American Taylor Fritz and soaking up warm applause as a much‑loved former champion.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 25, 2026 02:44 UTC