Defending champion Jannik Sinner advanced to the Australian Open semi-finals with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Ben Shelton on Wednesday, booking a blockbuster clash with 10-time champion Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park.
The second seed extended his dominance over Shelton, recording a ninth consecutive win in their rivalry without dropping a set. The win marked Sinner’s ninth Grand Slam semi-final appearance and his sixth in a row.
Match Control and Key Moments
Despite the straight-sets scoreline, Sinner was tested by Shelton’s explosive left-handed serve, which repeatedly pushed his reactions.
“It’s very tough to play against Ben, he’s got a huge serve and he’s improving year after year,” Sinner said.
“It’s definitely one of the toughest challenges to return his serve.”
Sinner took early control of the contest with a delicate winner around the net post to break serve in the fourth game of the opening set. Any lingering fitness concerns also appeared resolved following earlier cramps in the tournament.
“I feel stronger physically again,” Sinner added.
Closing Out the Match
The third set followed a similar pattern, with Sinner capitalising on a Shelton double fault to secure a crucial break at 4-4.
“These are the moments you practice for,” Sinner said.
“You have to play at your best… Hopefully it’s going to be a great, great battle out here.”
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