Jim Courier taken aback by Jannik Sinner: "He has changed"

Jannik Sinner easily made it through the first rounds of the Australian Open against Hugo Gaston and James Duckworth, and insiders have begun to analyze the changes the Blue has made to his game in recent months. Prominent among them is former world number one Jim Courier, who in an interview with Eurosport explained what has impressed him most about these early outings by the South Tyrolean outfielder, who in Melbourne is hunting for his third consecutive title in the first Slam of the season.

Luca Franzosi

“It is hard to imagine him struggling during matches, given his consistency in recent seasons. He has automated all his shots, can always pick the right one, is incredible in response and has a wide range of offensive shots from any position on the court. And his serve since the U.S. Open has changed, he has changed the ball toss and become a completely different server, and that gives him even more confidence. It would be an absolute surprise if he didn”t make it to the final, Courier said.

After the victory over Duckworth, Sinner related his feelings: “I served very well and I am pleased with my performance. I know Duckworth has had a lot of surgeries and it is good to see him back on the court at this level, I wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season. Thanks also to the audience: I know you are Australian like my opponent, but you were very fair”.

“I am happy with where I am, but as always we try to push and get something more. The best short ball? Definitely Alcaraz’s, but there are many talents, including my first-round opponent Gaston”.

Sinner in the third round will face the American Eliot Spizzirri. The American just in January 2026 achieved the best ATP ranking of his career, rising to 85th position. Destro, who is 185 cm tall, also achieved good results in doubles, where he reached No. 159 in 2025.