After a thrilling fortnight of tennis at the Australian Open, just two men are still standing in Melbourne. Both have had to dig deep at points and both have played some excellent tennis so far. Both will also no doubt be desperate to get their hands on the title. But will it be Jannik Sinner or Daniil Medvedev who lifts the famous Norman Brookes Challenge Cup on Sunday?
Australian Open Final Prediction
Jannik Sinner vs Daniil Medvedev
Jim: After the manner in which he beat the great Novak Djokovic on the Serb’s favourite court, Sinner probably should be the favourite here. Maybe he is. But Medvedev, having battled his way into the final with back-to-back five-set wins over Hubert Hurkacz and Alexander Zverev, can’t be discounted. He has experience at this level and has won a Major before. Sinner might be riding high, but this is first Major final and nerves will surely be a factor. And against a player who is so good at making life uncomfortable for his opponents, those nerves might just prove costly.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Jordan: Medvedev leads the overall head-to-head 6-3 between these two, but Sinner has won their last three meetings, with all of these coming towards the end of last year. Sinner may feel he is somewhat destined for the title after beating Novak Djokovic, regardless of how under-par the 10-time Australian Open champion was. The energy levels of Medvedev could also be an issue. He has played two five-set matches in a row, compared to Sinner dropping one set all tournament. I do not see Sinner tightening up now. This feels like his moment to shine, and I expect him to seize it.
Prediction: Sinner in 3
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Andreas: After Sinner’s superb victory over Novak Djokovic in the semifinals, he’s one win away from becoming the third Italian male tennis player to win a coveted Grand Slam. He’s done well this fortnight in controlling his groundstrokes and serving well.
Medvedev isn’t the best matchup for Sinner stylistically, although the Italian won the pair’s last three meetings. Medvedev does well to neutralize Sinner’s power, as the Russian can use his cat-and-mouse style of play to frustrate Sinner.
Yet, Medvedev may have to shorten points and be aggressive simply because of the amount of tennis he’s played this tournament. He’s had to play consecutive five-set matches, something that could be a handicap in the final. In the end, I’m picking Sinner to continue his momentum and win his first Grand Slam title.
Prediction: Sinner in 4
Jack: Though Djokovic was off his best, Sinner’s performance getting to this final has been untouchable. The Italian’s improvements appear to be holding up in a major in the biggest moments. He’s taken their last three meetings against Medvedev and this could be much the same result. At the same time, I can’t shake the feeling Medvedev has an ace up his sleeve. I think the five-time Slam finalist will leave it all out there against an improved but inexperienced opponent.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
