Jannik Sinner returns to Australian Open for first time since triumph for exhibition match win

Jannik Sinner has won his first match back on Rod Laver Arena after returning for the first time since his Australian Open triumph last year.

Sinner saw off Alexei Popyrin 6-4, 7-6(2) in front of a packed crowd. Unlike his rivals including Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev, Sinner decided not to play any ATP tournaments in the lead up to the Australian Open.

Likely owing to the fact that Sinner like many was playing late into the season in 2024. He did the same 12 months ago after a similarly busy schedule before winning his first major title before triumphing also at the US Open that year.

Read also

Australia Captain Lleyton Hewitt makes decision on Nick Kyrgios' Davis Cup return amid Cruz-Sinner controversy

It is also semi a shock for Sinner in terms of the sudden change in weather. He has gone from snowy Italy where he spent Christmas with his family to the 30 degree heat of Melbourne with the Aussie summer. He was challenged by Popyrin who broke for a 4-2 lead in the second set.

But Sinner bounced back to claim a straight sets win. “Today we are friends – we are not opponents – so we all agree to have some fun here and I hope you guys enjoyed it," said Sinner as per AAP.

“2024 was an amazing season for me, but it’s already gone, so we are 2025,” he said. "We started every year here in Melbourne, which is an amazing city.

“So many things happened for me on the court and off the court, very special ones, so I’m very happy to be back here playing these kind of matches.

“Even if it’s kind of exhibition, for us it’s always very important trying to feel the court, trying to feel the pace.

“Obviously having the crowd here means so much to us, so thank you so much for coming and then we’ll see what’s coming down in the official tournament.”

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe