Australian Open: Jannik Sinner defeats Eliot Spizziri in four sets following controversial stoppage
- - Australian Open: Jannik Sinner defeats Eliot Spizziri in four sets following controversial stoppage
Ian CasselberryJanuary 24, 2026 at 12:12 AM
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No. 2 seed Jannik Sinner battled triple-digit heat in Melbourne and a strong effort from unseeded Eliot Spizziri to fight through a four-set win at Day 7 of the Australian Open. Sinner prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
The result came under controversial circumstances with officials deciding to suspend play for 10 minutes early in the third set with Sinner behind 2-1 because of the heat index reaching 5.0, which required the open roof to then be closed. Prior to the stoppage, Sinner struggled with cramps in both legs that required him to receive courtside treatment.
After losing the first set 6-4 and falling behind in the third set, briefly suspending the match to give Sinner a break compelled many fans to complain that the two-time Australian Open champion was receiving favorable treatment from officials. When the match was halted, Sinner was clearly having difficulty with his legs and was losing to Spizziri.
Jannik Sinner of Italy receives treatment after suffering from cramps in 100-degree heat during his third round match against Eliot Spizzirri at the Australian Open on Jan. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Dar Yasin) ()
Sinner appeared refreshed following the break, though he still struggled to regain strength in his legs when play resumed. Spizziri arguably lost the momentum he had when he was pressing his advantage before the match was suspended.
The defending Australian Open champion went on to rally and win the third set 6-4.
The AO Heat Stress Scale is above 5.0. Play is suspended for all matches and practice on outside courts. The roofs on RLA, MCA and JCA will close and remain closed for the remainder of the match. If onsite, please seek shade and apply cooling strategies.
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2026
Sinner will face No. 22 seed Luciano Darderi in the Round of 16 as he continues his pursuit of a third consecutive Australian Open title.
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Source: “AOL Sports”
