World number one Jannik Sinner made a strong start at the Australian Open 2025 with a straight-set win over Nicolas Jarry. The defending champion triumphed 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/5), 6-1, securing his 16th consecutive Tour-level victory.
Doping Scandal Lingers
Despite a recent doping controversy, the crowd welcomed Sinner warmly. The 23-year-old faced questions over a positive test for the steroid clostebol in March. He explained that the drug entered his system when his physio used a spray on a cut. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency cleared him, while the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the decision.
Crowd Support Despite Controversy
Nevertheless, the Melbourne crowd showed no signs of hostility towards Sinner. He was greeted with applause and cheered on during his match. “Today it was a close one because in the first sets it could have gone both ways,” Sinner said. “In the third when I broke for the first time, it gave me room to breathe.”
Sinner’s Commanding Performance
Moreover, Sinner’s consistency was evident as Jarry struggled to break his serve. Both of the first two sets went to tiebreaks, but Sinner sealed them with solid play. In the third set, he broke early and cruised to victory.
Next Opponent: Taro Daniel or Tristan Schoolkate
Looking ahead, Sinner will face either Taro Daniel or Australian wildcard Tristan Schoolkate in the next round. If he progresses, he could meet Alex de Minaur in the quarter-finals and Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals.
Breakthrough Year in 2024
Finally, Sinner had a breakthrough 2024 season. He won the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals, becoming the first player since Roger Federer in 2005 to go unbeaten in straight-set matches. Furthermore, he won eight titles, reached the semis at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and helped Italy successfully defend the Davis Cup.