Jannik Sinner won the Grand Slam title he had long hoped for with an extraordinary comeback by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.
The 22-year-old Italian Sinner was two sets down before recovering to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 in his first major final.
Sinner, who came in fourth, was initially unable to keep up with the Russian's pace, but prevailed over the course of the competition.
It was another bitter experience for Medvedev, who also blew a two-set lead against Rafael Nadal in the 2022 final.
A first-time champion in Melbourne was guaranteed after Sinner eliminated ten-time winner Novak Djokovic in the semi-final.
Sinner ensured his name is on the trophy – fulfilling the talent that many predicted would lead to a Grand Slam triumph – after an epic match that lasted almost four hours.
“It feels great. I just have to process it, I think, how it feels the first time,” Sinner told Australian broadcaster Channel Nine.
“It’s been a hell of a journey, even though I’m only 22.”
Third-seeded Medvedev, 27, has lost five of his six major finals, including against Djokovic in 2021 and Nadal in 2022 at Melbourne Park.
Sinner secured the win with a forehand down the line and fell on his back at the baseline in celebration.
Medvedev stalked around the net to offer his congratulations before Sinner headed off to celebrate with his team.
As he sat in his chair trying to process the defeat, Medvedev appeared heartbroken and managed to give the crowd a thumbs up as they applauded his efforts.
“It hurts to lose in the final, but it's probably better to be in the final than to lose before,” said Medvedev, who set a record for the longest time on court at a grand final at 24 hours and 17 minutes. Slam tournament has been set up.
“I always want to win and I think I’ll have to try harder next time.”