The lack of drama in the fourth round at the Australian Open continued on Monday, when just ten sets in total were played across four matchups. Novak Djokovic got a walkover, while Jannik Sinner, Lorenzo Musetti and Ben Shelton won routinely.
Sinner recovered from a tough match against Eliot Spizzirri on Saturday by beating compatriot Luciano Darderi 6-1, 6-3, 7-6(2). In much friendlier weather conditions, the two-time defending champions advanced in just two hours and nine minutes.
Musetti took care of Taylor Fritz, who entered the season with knee tendinitis and was also dealing with an abdominal issue — perhaps along with other injury issues. The Italian took advantage of his opportunity and reached the quarter-finals with a 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 victory.
Following Jakub Mensik’s withdrawal against Djokovic, Shelton’s showdown against Casper Ruud was moved from John Cain Arena to the night session match at Rod Laver Arena. Perhaps no one loves the big stage more than Shelton, and played like it. The seventh-ranked American recovered from a slow start to cross at 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.
In total, only 22 sets were played in the entire fourth round of the men’s singles. Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Alex de Minair and Learner Tien all won in straights on Sunday.
Top five highlights on day 9:
Australian Open Day 9 Results
Novak Djokovic d. Jakub Mensik (walkover)
Jannik Sinner d. Luciano Darderi 6-1, 6-3, 7-6(2)
Lorenzo Musetti d. Taylor Fritz 6-2, 7-5, 6-4
Ben Shelton d. Casper Ruud 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4
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