AO 2024 semis: Five things Sinner is playing for against Djokovic

His comprehensive win over Rublev was Sinner’s third top-10 victory at a Grand Slam – he’ll target a fourth against Djokovic – and he is also the first Italian to make the semifinals at multiple majors before turning 23.

Ahead of his highly-anticipated clash with Djokovic on Friday afternoon at Rod Laver Arena, we examine the many milestones he is on the cusp of achieving.

1. He would reach his first major final

Sinner has equalled his best-ever performance at a Grand Slam tournament, after reaching last year's Wimbledon semifinals. There, he lost to Djokovic in straight sets.

Sinner was also one point away from a second major semifinal at the 2022 US Open, before falling in an unforgettable five-set clash to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz.

2. He would emulate a modern great

Should he beat Djokovic, Sinner would join Murray in registering four wins in his first six meetings against a reigning world No.1.

He currently owns a 3-2 record against No.1-ranked opponents; two wins over Djokovic, and one over Alcaraz.

JANNIK SINNER'S MATCHES AGAINST CURRENT WORLD NO.1s

In the history of ATP computer rankings, only Rafael Nadal has a better record in his first six meetings with a world No.1, winning five.

3. He would beat Djokovic for the third time past in four matches

Fourth-ranked Sinner came out on top, 6-2 2-6 7-5, in his last meeting with Djokovic in November’s Davis Cup semifinals.

Djokovic had previously claimed bragging rights with a 6-3 6-3 ATP Finals showpiece victory in Turin – a loss on home soil that remains Sinner’s only defeat across his last 19 Tour-level matches.

That is a run which includes Sinner emerging triumphant in his first clash with Djokovic at the ATP Finals earlier that week. 

Sinner was the only player to go undefeated in the group stages in Turin – momentum he has carried into AO 2024.

4. He would end an incredible Djokovic streak

The world No.1 has not lost a match at the Australian Open since 2018.

Since then, he has built a 33-match winning streak at Melbourne Park, equalling the long-standing record set by Monica Seles in the last 1990s.