Jannik Sinner Vs James Duckworth, Australian Open: Reigning Champ Overpowers Home ‍Wildcard

Jannik Sinner continued his bid for an Australian Open three-peat with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 win over home ‍wildcard James Duckworth on Thursday (January 22, 2026), finishing off in under two hours. Sinner proved just too good for Duckworth, producing a serving masterclass to sail into the third round. It was Sinner’s 27th successive Tour-level victory against Australian players, his last defeat ⁠coming against Duckworth in Toronto in 2021. The Italian two-time defending champion meets United States' Eliot Spizzirri next.

Updated on: 22 January 2026 4:38 pm

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Jannik Sinner of Italy waves after winning his second round match against James Duckworth of Australia at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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James Duckworth of Australia waves as he leaves the court following his second round loss to Jannik Sinner of Italy at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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Jannik Sinner, left, of Italy is congratulated by James Duckworth of Australia following their second match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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Jannik Sinner of Italy plays a backhand return to James Duckworth of Australia during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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James Duckworth of Australia plays a backhand return to Jannik Sinner of Italy during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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Jannik Sinner of Italy plays a forehand return to James Duckworth of Australia during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Aaron Favila

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