World No. 1 Jannik Sinner shook off an early struggle to beat Australian wildcard Tristan Schoolkate 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 and move into the third round of the Australian Open, on Thursday.
Sinner’s 15-match run of not dropping a set came crashing to a halt when 173rd-ranked Schoolkate took the first set in 47 minutes to shock the defending champion. The local crowd went nuts as Schoolkate took the only break point he got by rocking Sinner early.
The Italian wrested control back in the second set, breaking at a critical moment at 4-3 and then running away with the rest of the match. “It’s always difficult to play for the first time someone,” Sinner said. “He started really well and I’m glad to move on.”
Even with his uncharacteristic 29 unforced errors, Sinner’s 42 winners, including a smashed forehand that clinched the match, told the story. A powerful service game, including one ace at 210 kph, and aggressive play at the net kept the match interesting, but Schoolkate was unable to sustain his level as the contest progressed.
Sinner, who’s won 20 straight matches against Australians, will face American Marcos Giron next as he chases back-to-back Grand Slam titles.
