World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is a two-time Australian Open champion and has won three of the last five Grand Slam tournaments. He defeated three-time Grand Slam finalist and World No. 2 Alexander Zverev, who was visibly frustrated because he could not penetrate Sinner’s brick wall. Zverev never held a breakpoint on Sinner’s serve.
Idk how else to say this but
Sinner v. Zverev doesn’t FEEL like a grand slam final.
At all.
#AusOpen 🎾
— Myles David (@TunedIntoTennis) January 26, 2025
Unlike Madison Keys’ victory on Saturday, this was a subdued event. The backdrop may have contributed to that. Here are some theories about why it was subdued.
1. Jannik Sinner Ran Away With This Match (And The Tournament)
It was never close. Sinner was workmanlike in execution. When Zverev’s energy dropped and frustration flared, Sinner continued methodically.
This tournament was his first Grand Slam as defending champion, and he never wavered or was really in trouble in any round.
2. Sinner’s Hearing Date Was Announced Before The Match
In a cruel twist, the Council of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) announced that Sinner’s hearing will be held on April 16. His case of a former physio applying a first aid spray (later learned to have a banned substance) to his own cut before working on Sinner’s skin looms over Sinner’s head.
A possible suspension could limit his ability to compete in some or all remaining 2025 Grand Slam tournaments. Given his stature as the World No. 1 and the best player on hard courts, this would be unfortunate for everyone involved.
3. Zverev Is Filled With Self Doubt
A lovely warm embrace between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev 🥰#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/Ypu0J7bkDW
— Eurosport (@eurosport) January 26, 2025
Sinner consoled a dejected Alexander Zverev before the trophy presentation. It was an unusual display between the champion and runner-up. Sinner was holding Zverev by the shoulders and appeared to be speaking words to lift his spirits. Zverev said in his speech that he is not good enough to win but will continue to try. He admitted that he is unsure he will ever win one.
4. Alexander Zverev’s Past Follows Him
Zverev’s off-the-court issues with former girlfriends have clouded his image with some fans. He seems like a nice guy in all dealings with the media and fellow players, but the public perception of him has been affected.
😲 Wow! As Zverev starts to speak, someone in the crowd shouts:
“Australia Believes Olya and Brenda (who both accused him of assault)” pic.twitter.com/cnIgHPN8LH
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) January 26, 2025
5. Darren Cahill’s Last AO Win As A Coach
One of Sinner’s coaches, Australian legend Darren Cahill, announced that he will retire in 2026. Cahill joined Sinner’s team in 2022 and is credited with tremendously improving Sinner’s game. On the podium, Sinner mentioned Cahill and said that he was trying to talk him into staying.
These things created a much different vibe at Rod Laver Arena for the 2025 Australian Open final.
