ATP tour
Sinner’s title defense in jeopardy against Spizzirri; Roof closed due to extreme heat
The match was tied at one set, Spizzirri made a break in the third
January 24, 2026
Jannik Sinner is chasing his third consecutive Australian Open title.
By ATP staff
Jannik Sinner has won back-to-back Australian Open titles, but his pursuit of a third straight trophy is in jeopardy.
Eliot Spizzirri leads the No. 2 player in the PIF ATP Rankings 6-4, 3-6, 3-1, with play suspended around 2:35 p.m. local time due to the tournament’s heat rule to close the roof of Rod Laver Arena. Play resumed less than 10 minutes later.
The stoppage came at a crucial time for Sinner, who was apparently suffering from cramps. At 2-1 in the third set, Sinner began to bend his left arm, showing discomfort. He then started struggling with his legs and couldn’t get a push off on his serve.
Spizzirri is participating in the third round of a major for the first time and had never played in the main draw of the Australian Open before. This is his first match against a Top 10 opponent.
Sinner has made 37 unforced errors in two and a half sets, while Spizzirri has largely avoided beating himself, making just 13 unforced errors since the suspension, according to Infosys Stats.
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