Sinner beats Shelton and will face Zverev in the Australian Open 2025 final

The best form of defence? All-out-attack.

This is @janniksin.@wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis • #AusOpen • #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/sRsCvIBfOW

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2025

Match against Shelton: Early resistance and final dominance

The start of the clash between Sinner and Shelton proved challenging for the Italian. Shelton, known for his powerful serve, broke Sinner’s service twice in the first set and even served for the set at one point. However, Sinner kept his focus, recovering the breaks and forcing a tiebreak. In the decider, the Italian was dominant, winning 7/6(2).

In the second set, Sinner capitalized on his momentum, quickly establishing a 4-0 lead. Struggling to counter the Italian’s attacks, Shelton had little chance to respond, and the set ended at 6/2. The third set saw Sinner experiencing physical difficulties, requiring medical attention for cramps. Despite this, the Italian maintained his superiority, broke Shelton’s serve, and closed the match with another 6/2.

Sinner’s journey through the tournament

Jannik Sinner has delivered flawless performances throughout the 2025 Australian Open. From the tournament’s opening round, he has not dropped a single set, decisively defeating his opponents. His campaign began with a win over Nicolas Jarry in the first round, followed by victories against rivals such as Holger Rune in the Round of 16 and Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals.

Sinner’s journey reflects not only his consistency but also his technical evolution. The Italian, who claimed two Grand Slam titles in 2024, has established himself as the leading figure in men’s tennis over the past year, culminating in his ATP Finals victory in November.

Zverev surpasses Djokovic and reaches the final

Alexander Zverev secured his spot in the final after Novak Djokovic withdrew from their semifinal match. Djokovic, who suffered a muscle tear in his left thigh, was unable to continue after losing the first set in a tiebreak. The Serbian’s injury was an unexpected moment in the tournament, paving the way for Zverev to reach his third Grand Slam final.

Before facing Djokovic, Zverev had a strong campaign, overcoming tough opponents like Tommy Paul in the quarterfinals. The German, who has come close to winning a Grand Slam title on several occasions, sees this final as an opportunity to finally break through.

Head-to-head between Sinner and Zverev

The head-to-head record between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev favors the German, who has won four of their six matches. However, Sinner emerged victorious in their two most recent encounters, including a significant win at the 2024 ATP Finals. These recent results suggest that the Italian is better prepared to face Zverev’s powerful and consistent playing style.

Playing styles of Sinner and Zverev

Sinner is renowned for his aggressive playing style, with deep and consistent groundstrokes. His excellent movement and ability to vary the angles of his shots are key weapons, particularly on hard courts. On the other hand, Zverev excels with his powerful serve and his ability to control points with a solid backhand. The final promises to be a clash of styles, where adaptability will be crucial.

Djokovic’s injury impact on the tournament

Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the semifinals has sparked discussions about his physical condition and future on the circuit. The Serbian, who has won the Australian Open ten times, has faced a season marked by injuries. His absence from the 2025 final symbolizes a possible generational shift in tennis, with players like Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz taking the spotlight.

Sinner’s records and streaks

Jannik Sinner is currently experiencing a remarkable phase in his career. Since losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the 2024 Beijing ATP 500 in October, the Italian has accumulated 20 consecutive victories, including significant titles such as the ATP Finals and the Davis Cup. Moreover, he hasn’t lost a Grand Slam match on hard courts since the 2023 US Open, where Zverev defeated him in the Round of 16.

Expectations for the final

The 2025 Australian Open final will take place on Sunday and is shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated moments. Sinner will aim to defend his title and claim his third Grand Slam, while Zverev will fight for his first trophy in one of the sport’s four major tournaments.

Key facts about the finalists

• Jannik Sinner:
  1. Current world number one.
  2. Champion of the 2024 Australian Open and US Open.
  3. Twenty consecutive victories since October 2024.
• Alexander Zverev:
  1. Currently ranked world number four.
  2. Has reached three Grand Slam finals.
  3. Key weapon: powerful serve and consistency in rallies.

Interesting facts about the tournament

1. The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam of the season and has been held since 1905.
2. Rod Laver Arena, where the final will be played, is one of the world’s most iconic tennis venues.
3. The tournament is renowned for its challenging weather conditions, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C.

Important data about the matchup

1. The last time Zverev defeated Sinner was at the 2023 US Open.
2. Sinner has averaged more than 10 aces per match in this tournament.
3. Both players are competing in their third Grand Slam final.

With Sinner and Zverev reaching the final, the 2025 Australian Open highlights the ongoing renewal in men’s tennis. While Djokovic and Rafael Nadal face the twilight of their careers, young talents like Sinner, Alcaraz, and Holger Rune are stepping up, bringing fresh excitement to the sport.