"This could be the year of Jannik Sinner" as Barbara Schett believes Italian ace could take it to Novak Djokovic at 'home slam'

ATP
Friday, 12 January 2024 at 08:30
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Although Novak Djokovic is the favorite to lift the crown at the 2024 Australian Open, rising Italian star Jannik Sinner has the game to topple the defending champion, according to tennis analyst Barbara Schett.
Djokovic will be looking to win his 11th Australian Open title when the event begins this Sunday, as the World No.1 has shown little sign of slowing down at the age of 36. Alternatively, Sinner has been playing his best tennis over the last few months, ending the 2023 season with two singles wins over Djokovic, one at the ATP Finals and the other during their clash at the Davis Cup Finals.

Sinner's gradual improvement could benefit the Italian, says Schett

In a recent interview, former World No.7 Schett spoke on Sinner's chances at the Australian Open, with the Italian possibly meeting Djokovic in the semifinals.
“Sinner has taken a step forward in his career and his tennis in the way he finished the year,” said Schett. “The way he played at the ATP Finals was just phenomenal. I think he has gradually improved. He didn’t burst onto the scene like (Carlos) Alcaraz and just needed a bit more time, but I feel he will get that improvement with a bit more time.
“It is almost like a home Slam for Jannik with Darren Cahill, an Australian, in his camp and I think he can benefit from that. He can beat anyone on his day. This could be the year for Jannik Sinner, but the question is can he win over five sets, for two weeks in seven matches? I think he is ready for it."

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