Naomi Osaka Withdraws from Australian Open, Shocking Tennis Fans
In a dramatic Australian Open encounter, Jannik Sinner, the two-time defending champion, narrowly advanced to the fourth round. Facing little-known American Eliot Spizzirri, Sinner experienced intense difficulty, battling cramps due to the extreme heat.
Match Overview
The match featured significant twists, with Sinner initially struggling on the court. However, the tournament’s extreme heat policy led to the closure of the roof, allowing Sinner a crucial respite. When play resumed, he managed to find his footing and eventually won the match.
- Final Score: Jannik Sinner defeated Eliot Spizzirri 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
- Match Duration: This was Sinner’s longest match at the Australian Open, surpassing his previous championship victories.
Critical Moments
Sinner expressed relief in his post-match interview, acknowledging the role the heat rule played in his victory. He stated, “I took my time [when play resumed] and, as the time passed, I felt better and better.” This match marks a significant chapter in Sinner’s campaign to retain his title.
Historical Context
Notably, this match is the third-longest that Sinner has experienced at the Australian Open. His longest matches prior to this were:
| Match | Duration | Opponent | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loss | 4h 00m | Stefanos Tsitsipas | 2023 |
| Loss | 3h 55m | Denis Shapovalov | 2021 |
As the tournament progresses, Sinner’s performance will be watched closely. Fans are eager to see if he can maintain his title defense and continue to impress on the court.