The men’s draw at the Australian Open 2026 has reached its most intense stage. The second semifinal brings a true generational showdown Novak Djokovic, the 38-year-old legend and 10-time Australian Open champion, against Jannik Sinner, the 23-year-old world No.2 and two-time defending champion.
The match will be played at Rod Laver Arena on Friday night, with history on both sides. Djokovic is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title and an 11th crown in Melbourne, while Sinner is one win away from a rare Australian Open three-peat.
Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner |
| Round | Men’s Singles Semifinal |
| Date | Friday, 30 January 2026 |
| Venue | Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne |
| Session | Night Session |
| Approx. Start Time (AEDT) | 7:30 PM |
| IST (India) | Around 2:00 PM |
| GMT | Around 8:30 AM |
| ET (USA) | Not before 3:30 AM |
How to Watch Live
- India: Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten 1/2/5), SonyLIV app & website
- Australia: Channel 9 (free-to-air) and Stan Sport
- USA: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN+, ESPN App
- UK: TNT Sports and Discovery+
- Worldwide: 9Now (Australia) via VPN where available
Novak Djokovic – Form & Tournament Run
Djokovic’s path to the semifinals has been unusual but effective. He remains 7–0 at this year’s Australian Open, though he has spent less time on court than most.
- Round of 16: Advanced via walkover
- Quarterfinal: Opponent retired while Djokovic was trailing by two sets
- Fitness factor: Fewer total sets played, which could help at 38
Key strengths:
- Best return game in tennis history
- Mental toughness in Grand Slam semifinals
- 103 career Australian Open match wins
Concerns:
- Limited match rhythm in later rounds
- Higher unforced errors compared to earlier years
Jannik Sinner – Form & Tournament Run
Sinner arrives in peak form and full rhythm. He has not dropped a single set in the tournament and is riding a 19-match Australian Open winning streak (2024–2026).
- Quarterfinal: Defeated Ben Shelton in straight sets
- Tournament trend: Dominant service games and clean baseline hitting
- Hard-court record (last 12 months): Elite and consistent
Key strengths:
- Flat, penetrating backhand
- Improved serve under pressure
- Calm decision-making in big matches
Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner Head to Head Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall | Sinner leads 6–4 |
| Last 5 meetings | Sinner won all 5 |
| Grand Slams | Sinner leads 3–2 |
| Australian Open | Sinner won 2024 semifinal |
| Recent sets | Sinner won last 9 sets vs Djokovic |
Key Stats Comparison (AO 2026)
| Stat | Djokovic | Sinner |
|---|---|---|
| Sets dropped | 0 | 0 |
| Avg. first-serve points won | ~71% | ~75% |
| Break points converted | Strong | Very strong |
| Time on court | Low | Medium |
| Momentum | Fresh but limited play | High and consistent |
Novak Djokovic vs Jannik Sinner Prediction
Most analysts see Jannik Sinner as the favorite due to form, fitness, and recent dominance.
- Moneyline (average):
- Sinner: Strong favorite
- Djokovic: Underdog
- Spread: Sinner favored by ~5 games
- Total sets: 3–4 sets expected
Prediction:
Sinner to win in straight sets or four sets. Djokovic’s experience and Australian Open pedigree could keep it competitive early, but Sinner’s pace and consistency give him the edge.
This semifinal is a clash of eras the greatest Australian Open champion ever against the man trying to become the tournament’s new ruler. Djokovic is chasing history, legacy, and one more chapter in his legendary career. Sinner is chasing dominance, a three-peat, and confirmation that this is now his stage.
