World No. 2 Jannik Sinner has brushed aside suggestions that Novak Djokovic holds a major advantage at the Australian Open after the 10-time champion received a walkover en route to the quarter-finals. While Djokovic’s path has been smoother than expected, Sinner insisted that such situations come with both benefits and drawbacks—and are simply part of the sport.
Djokovic arrived in Melbourne with fewer expectations than in recent years, following a 2025 season in which he struggled against the tour’s rising stars, including Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Now 38, the Serbian great has openly acknowledged that fatigue has become a bigger factor in Grand Slam matches, particularly against younger opponents deep into tournaments.
Despite those concerns, Djokovic has enjoyed a relatively comfortable run at this year’s Australian Open. He has not dropped a set and advanced to the quarter-finals after Jakub Menšík withdrew with injury ahead of their scheduled fourth-round match. As a result, Djokovic has not played since Saturday, giving him valuable recovery time as temperatures soar in Melbourne.
The walkover means Djokovic will face fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti having spent significantly less time on court than his Italian opponent. Djokovic also holds a commanding 9–1 head-to-head record against Musetti, adding to speculation that his lighter workload could prove decisive as the tournament reaches its business end.
Following his straight-sets victory over compatriot Luciano Darderi, Sinner was asked whether Djokovic’s situation gave him an edge—particularly with the physical demands of the tournament increasing. The Italian, however, refused to read too much into it.
“I don’t know,” Sinner said when the topic was raised. “There are positives and negatives. In this sport, it can happen. Sometimes it helps you, sometimes it breaks your rhythm. It depends.”
Sinner pointed out that Djokovic has also played several quick matches earlier in the tournament, meaning the walkover was not a dramatic shift from his usual pattern. Extra rest, he explained, can provide more energy, but time away from competition can also disrupt timing and match sharpness.
“I think nothing really changed,” Sinner added. “I’ll watch on my side. I have a very tough match in front of my eyes.”
That focus now turns to American Ben Shelton, who Sinner will face in the quarter-finals. Shelton earned his spot by defeating Casper Ruud in the round of 16 and has been one of the standout performers in Melbourne, combining explosive serving with fearless shot-making.
Sinner acknowledged the challenge ahead and made it clear that his priority is progressing rather than speculating about potential semi-final matchups. “If I’m in the semis, I’m very happy,” he said. “If not, it was still a great Grand Slam for me.”
One clear positive for Sinner has been his improved serve. Against Darderi, he fired down a career-high 19 aces, a reflection of the work he put in during the off-season. Sinner revealed that technical adjustments to his service motion have paid immediate dividends.
“We put a lot of work in, especially with the serve,” Sinner explained. “I feel more confident, and it’s more stable now. There’s still room to improve, but I’m very happy with how I’ve come back this season.”
As Djokovic eyes another deep Australian Open run and Sinner continues his steady rise, the tournament appears set for a compelling clash between generations—should their paths eventually cross.