Jannik Sinner claimed the Grand Slam title he has long deserved with a remarkable comeback to beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.
Italy’s Sinner, 22, was down by two sets before rallying to win 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in his maiden major final.
Fourth seed Sinner initially struggled with the Russian’s speed but asserted himself as the battle raged on.
It was another painful experience for Medvedev, who also squandered a two-set lead against Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final.
A first-time champion in Melbourne was assured after Sinner ousted 10-time winner Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.
Sinner made sure his name goes on the trophy – realizing the potential that many had forecasted would lead to a Grand Slam glory – after a titanic match lasting almost four hours.
“It feels amazing. I just have to digest it, I guess, how it feels the first time,” Sinner told Australia’s Channel Nine.
“It has been a hell of a journey even if I’m still only 22.”
Third seed Medvedev, 27, has lost five of his six major finals, including ones against Djokovic in 2021 and Nadal in 2022 at Melbourne Park.
Sinner sealed victory with a forehand winner down the line, collapsing to his back on the baseline in jubilation.
Medvedev dragged himself around the net to offer his congratulations before Sinner pounded his heart on his way to celebrate with his team.
Looking crestfallen as he tried to process the loss while sitting on his chair, Medvedev managed to give a thumbs-up to the crowd when they cheered his efforts.
“It hurts to lose in the final but probably being in the final is better than losing before,” said Medvedev, who set a record for the most time spent on court at a Grand Slam tournament with 24 hours and 17 minutes.
“I always want to win and I guess I have to try harder next time.”