In an exhilarating Australian Open final on Sunday, January 28, Jannik Sinner orchestrated a stunning recovery from two sets down to claim victory over Daniil Medvedev, securing his first Grand Slam title.

Initially overwhelmed by the Russian's aggression, the Italian fourth seed rallied to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3.

The victory marks Sinner as the first Italian champion in the tournament's history.

Jannik Sinner of Italy poses with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup. Photo: Daniel Pockett. — Jannik Sinner of Italy poses with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup during the official presentation after their Men's Singles Final match against Daniil Medvedev. Photo: Daniel Pockett.
Source: Getty Images

Sinner, displaying resilience and determination, celebrated on Rod Laver Arena, collapsing to the floor before rising to savour the moment.

He embraced coaches Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill in his box after an exceptional performance that included 14 aces, 50 winners, and breaking Medvedev’s serve four times.

Xavi sends Barcelona fans urgent message after 4-1 mauling by Real Madrid

Football

The 22-year-old's triumph makes him the first Italian man to win a Grand Slam since 1976 and the youngest Australian Open winner since Novak Djokovic in 2008. Sinner's earlier semi-final victory over Djokovic guaranteed a new name on the trophy, and he fulfilled the promise in a remarkable showdown.

"I'm feeling great; I just have to process it all. It was a great match and a great opportunity, and I took it in the right way. It's a great, great moment for me. It's been a hell of a journey till now, even if I am still only 22," said Sinner, as quoted on France24.

Sinner acknowledged the challenge he faced in the initial sets.

The defeat is a bitter disappointment for Medvedev, who lost a two-set lead in the 2022 final against Rafael Nadal.

In the women’s final, Aryna Sabalenka delivered an authoritative performance on Saturday, January 27, overpowering China's Zheng Qinwen to defend her Australian Open title successfully, as reported by SuperSport.

Son fluffs lines but S.Korea, Iraq win openers at Asian Cup

Football

The Belarusian world number two secured a 6-3, 6-2 victory in just 76 minutes, becoming the first woman in over a decade to achieve a successful title defence at the tournament.

Sabalenka's dominant run throughout the competition, not dropping a set in seven matches, solidified her status as one of the game's most consistent contenders in Grand Slams. Her remarkable display included reaching at least the semi-finals in her past six majors, making three finals, and winning twice.