Jannik Sinner has admitted he was ‘struggling’ to cope with the breezy conditions at the Australian Open as he beat Tristan Schoolkate in four sets on Thursday morning.
The world No 1 is hoping to defend his title Down Under, having secured glory 12 months ago.
But Sinner had to dig deep to see off Schoolkate on Thursday, with the Italian coming from a set down to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3.
Speaking after his victory, the 23-year-old admitted to ‘struggling’ with the conditions.
Jannik Sinner has admitted he was ‘struggling’ to cope with the breezy conditions at the Australian Open as he beat Tristan Schoolkate in four sets on Thursday morning
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He said: “It was a very tough match, I can improve but today I was struggling a bit with the wind, it was quite breezy but I take it and it was a good chance to have the honour to play in the evening for the night session, it’s such a beautiful court and it was amazing.
“The wind was breezing but it’s always much better to play in these courts than on the outside courts because they are even worse.
“Let’s see, the conditions can change and everyday can be very difficult, it can change the level of each player so let’s see what’s coming but I’m happy to be here and in the next round and we will see, hopefully I can raise my level.”
“With the crowd as well it was an amazing atmosphere so thank you so much for coming as well, it’s a very special place and for the Australians to play here with the home crowd but I have to be very happy still with my performance.
“It’s never taking things for granted so I’m very glad again to be in the next round.”
This winter, Sinner is defending a Grand Slam for the first time in his career.
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Jannik Sinner was able to overcome Tristan Schoolkate in four sets at the Australian Open
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The tennis star, who won the US Open last year as well, has admitted it’s a ‘different feeling’.
Yet Sinner feels confident he can achieve great things Down Under, with the Italian adamant there’s more to come.
“It’s definitely a different feeling but there are so many beautiful moments on and off the court that has happened to me here in this beautiful place,” he said.
Jannik Sinner will lock horns with Marcos Giron in the third round of the Australian Open
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“It’s different but I take it as a chance to hopefully do it again, there’s still a very long way to go, we go day by day.
“From today we know my level can improve which is the most important and hopefully I can show this in the next round and hopefully again it’s going to be a great tournament for me.”
Sinner will face Marcos Giron in round three, with the 31-year-old American going into that contest on the back of a 7-5, 3-6, 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.
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