Sat Jan 25 17:37:54 UTC 2025: ## Sinner Cruises into Second Straight Australian Open Final
**Melbourne, Australia** – Jannik Sinner has secured his place in the Australian Open final for the second consecutive year, defeating American Ben Shelton in straight sets, 7-6 (2), 6-2, 6-2. The victory marks Sinner’s 20th consecutive win and establishes him as the youngest player to reach two Australian Open finals since Jim Courier in 1993.
Shelton, the 21st seed, started strong, frustrating the world number one with his aggressive forehand and varied game. He even held two set points at 6-5 in the first set. However, Sinner, known for his composure under pressure, dramatically raised his game, winning the tie-break and ultimately dominating the match.
Despite battling cramps in the third set, Sinner’s consistent baseline play and powerful returns proved too much for Shelton, who admitted to serving poorly in the final two sets. Shelton expressed disappointment, stating that failing to convert his set points proved costly against a player of Sinner’s caliber.
Sinner, who boasts a remarkable 52-3 record on hard courts since the start of 2024 and an undefeated 20-0 run in hard court Grand Slam tournaments, will face Alexander Zverev in Sunday’s final. A win would give him his third consecutive hard-court Grand Slam title, following his US Open victory in September.
“Even if it’s easy to say, but difficult to do, I will try to win and also enjoy these moments,” said Sinner. “We won six very, very tough matches. Finals are very special.” He expressed his happiness at reaching another final but acknowledged that anything can happen on Sunday.
First Piper 