Overview
- Sinner defeated Eliot Spizzirri 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in just under four hours after struggling with cramps early in the third set.
- Play was suspended under the tournament’s extreme-heat policy as temperatures neared 40°C, and the roof was closed before Sinner steadied to take control.
- “I struggled physically and was fortunate with the heat rule,” Sinner said, describing cramps in his legs and arms before recovering his level.
- The No. 2 seed will face compatriot Luciano Darderi in the round of 16 after Darderi beat Karen Khachanov in four sets; Lorenzo Musetti also advanced, giving Italy three men in the second week.
- Sinner, champion in 2024 and 2025, extended his Melbourne winning streak to 18 matches after cruising past James Duckworth in straight sets in the previous round.