AUSTRALIAN OPEN

January 24, 2022

Jannik Sinner

Press Conference

J. SINNER/A. de Minaur

7-6, 6-3, 6-4

THE MODERATOR: That was your Rod Laver Arena debut, and against the Australian No. 1. How was the experience overall?

JANNIK SINNER: Of course it was a tough test for me, because he's an incredible player, one of the nicest guys on tour also. Obviously when he plays here, especially in Australia, Australian Open and everything, is a tough opponent. Very, very tough. I knew that.

I tried to stay composed with myself, and today I have to say I raised the level, especially in the second and third set. In the beginning, there was a little bit tension on both sides, which is normal. I was expecting a long match.

THE MODERATOR: Questions?

Q. You had this crazy point in the second set when Alex applauded you. What happened during that point?

JANNIK SINNER: It was. I remember I made a passing backhand cross; is that right?

Q. Yeah, yeah, yeah. You were like falling down on the forehand, and then you were sliding to your backhand.

JANNIK SINNER: Yeah, it was an important point, because I think I was Love-15 already, if I go Love-30, it's going to be a tough hold.

But, yeah, I think he played a good point, and me also.

Q. The sliding, is it like the skiing background of you?

JANNIK SINNER: I like to slide in one way, but in the other way, skiing is a little bit different, I would say (smiling).