Jannik Sinner Reveals 'Very Strange' Morning That Led To Physical Issues Against Rune
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Jannik Sinner gave some context to the physical issues he endured in his last Australian Open match against Holger Rune.
Sinner continued his title defense by beating the Dane in four sets to reach the quarterfinal. The ATP world No. 1 was a significant favorite to overcome Rune, especially since the 21-year-old had battled through two five-set matches to make the fourth round.
However, Sinner's internal battles looked like they could cost him at one stage. He began shaking at one point and appeared to be struggling with the hot conditions that are common in the daytime in Melbourne.
Last year's champion went off-court for a medical timeout due to the issue. Although Sinner still did not look entirely comfortable throughout the rest of the match, he held it together well enough to triumph 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2.
Unsurprisingly, two-time Australian Open champion Jim Courier asked Sinner in his on-court interview about how hard he had to fight to come through the match because of those physical struggles. Sinner mentioned how vital the crowd's support was to his success.
"It was for sure very tough. I knew he had many long matches before this one, so I tried to stay there mentally. I just tried to stay connected to my service game and then on return games to just see what happens."
"Today the support meant so much to me, thank you guys so much. I really needed you guys today. It's 90% yours and 10% I try to make you happy, so thank you so much."
Courier then asked directly about what the physical issues were. Sinner revealed that they were not caused by the heat during the match but unexpectedly arose on the morning of the contest.
"This morning was a very strange morning, I didn't even warm up today. I tried to go on the court as fit as I could. I knew in my mind before I started the match that I was struggling today. I have to say that game-wise I played well today, I served very well, it was quality shows that gave me the confidence to fight on."
The two-time Grand Slam champion also paid tribute to the doctor and the organizers at the Australian Open, who helped him manage how he was feeling and battle through in four sets against an opponent as dangerous as Rune.
"The time off the court with the doctor, we talked a little bit. It helped me today and it shows this tournament has great organization and looks after the players. It's an awesome tournament and we are very happy to be here, happy to compete. For these kind of matches we try to bring out our best for you guys (the crowd), so thank you so much."
Sinner probably cannot afford the same issues against the home favorite, Alex de Minaur, in the quarterfinals. While the Italian has a great record against him, de Minaur is one of the fastest players in the world, and Sinner will need to be ready to play several long rallies.
Nonetheless, the No. 1 seed is the favorite for that match. For now, he can sit back and watch what might be an epic battle between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic on Tuesday at the Australian Open.
