Jannik Sinner making changes in response to Novak Djokovic defeat in Australian Open semi-finals – ‘Taught me a lot’
By Marko Tankosic
SME News Balkan. Jannik Sinner says his dramatic Australian Open semi-final defeat to Novak Djokovic “taught me a lot” as he prepares to return to action at the Qatar Open in Doha.
The 24-year-old Italian, currently ranked world No. 2, will make his first-ever appearance at the Qatar Open this week, marking his first competitive tournament since his five-set loss to Djokovic in Melbourne.
Sinner Reflects on Australian Open Semi-Final Defeat
Sinner entered the 2026 Australian Open as the two-time defending champion and tournament favorite. In a high-quality semi-final clash, he led 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 against Novak Djokovic before the Serbian star mounted a comeback to win the fourth and fifth sets in classic fashion.
Djokovic later fell to Carlos Alcaraz in the final, as the Spaniard extended his lead at the top of the ATP rankings.
Despite the disappointment, Sinner has taken positives from the encounter.
“The match against Nole taught me a lot,” Sinner said ahead of the Qatar Open. “It was a great match, both on my part and on his. I had my chances. Sometimes it doesn’t go as you hope, but that’s sport.”
Tactical Adjustments Ahead of Doha
Sinner revealed that he and his team are working on small but important tactical details following the loss.
“We’re changing small details on the court, things that take a bit of time to become as natural as possible. But he gave me good feedback,” he explained.
The Italian emphasized that defeat is part of growth, especially at the highest level of the sport.
“We must not forget that sometimes losing is normal; it happens. I experienced it in a very normal way. I am 24 years old, and I just want to play good tennis anywhere in the world.”
A Rivalry Defining the New Era
Sinner and Alcaraz dominated the 2025 season, combining for all four Grand Slam titles. Sinner reached the final of every major, winning the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while Alcaraz defeated him at Roland Garros and the US Open.
Their rivalry, alongside the enduring presence of Djokovic, has defined a new era in men’s tennis. The Australian Open semi-final served as another reminder that the competition at the top remains fierce.
Now, all eyes turn to Doha as Sinner aims to regain momentum and build rhythm early in the season.
“Let’s try to get back into the rhythm, feel the tournament pressure again, and see what happens,” he said.
With the Qatar Open set to begin on February 16, Sinner’s return adds further intrigue to an already competitive ATP field, as the Italian looks to respond strongly after his Melbourne setback.
