Home/Tennis

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

New Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from next week’s Open 13 Provence in Marseille. The Italian tennis star defeated Daniil Medvedev to lift the 2024 Australian Open title, his first Grand Slam title. He came back from two sets down to prevail in a tight five-set contest.

The 22-year-old became the first man from Italy to win a major singles title in nearly a half-century. Meanwhile, the organizers are already working on a replacement with the Australian Open semi-finalist being lined up.

Alexander Zverev, who narrowly lost in the semifinal against Medvedev, has been contacted to participate in the tournament. However, it is unclear if the German star will play in the tournament, especially after a deep run Down Under. The ATP 250 tournament in Marseille will be held from February 5 to 11.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

In Sinner’s absence, the defending champion, Hubert Hurkacz, will lead the draw. He will be joined by the likes of Grigor Dimitrov and Andy Murray. Sinner will be back in action at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam. It is an ATP 500 tournament beginning on 12th February.

DIVE DEEPER: Moments After Scripting Italian Tennis History, Jannik Sinner Reveals What Thrusted Him to Australian Open Glory

The Australian Open 2024 has been an emotional journey for Sinner. After years of hard work, he has tasted his first major success. Following his victory Down Under, he made a touching revelation.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Sinner on his emotional tennis journey

The Italian star made a lot of sacrifices while pursuing his dream tennis career. One among them was staying away from his family at a very young age. After lifting the Australian Open title, he opened up about missing his family.

Sinner said, “I don’t see them so often, unfortunately, but when I see them it’s always a great time. I went away from home when I was 14 years old. So I had to grow up quite fast, trying to cook for myself, trying to make laundry.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

As the emotions still sink in, Sinner would like to live each moment to its fullest after the sweet success. While he has the upcoming tournaments to focus on, for now, he can celebrate his maiden Grand Slam victory.

Watch This Story: Distressing Serena Williams Reality Leaves Gaping Void That’s Nearly Impossible to Fill for Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek