World No. 1 Jannik Sinner began his Australian Open campaign with a solid victory over Nicolas Jarry in the first round, winning 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. Despite facing a doping controversy that could have overshadowed his performance, Sinner was met with a warm reception from the Melbourne crowd, which showed no signs of animosity.
The defending champion, who has not lost a match since October 2024, held his ground through two closely contested sets before breaking away in the third, continuing his remarkable 16-match win streak.
Sinner's victory comes in the midst of a doping appeal. Last year, he tested positive twice for the banned steroid clostebol, although he claimed it was due to a physio's use of a spray.
The International Tennis Integrity Agency cleared him, but the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport will review the case in April. Throughout the match, there was no visible negative reception from the audience, and Sinner remained focused on his performance, navigating difficult moments with composure.
Looking ahead, Sinner will face either Japan's Taro Daniel or Australian wildcard Tristan Schoolkate in the second round. With his dominant run in 2024, which included major titles at the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals, Sinner has established himself as a strong contender.
His impressive unbeaten streak in straight-set victories, a feat last achieved by Roger Federer in 2005, has positioned him as one of the top favorites for this year's title, with potential matchups against Alex de Minaur and Daniil Medvedev later in the tournament.
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