*Sinner - Duckworth: 4 PM today, 22/1, Hanoi time.

In 2021, Sinner was furious when Duckworth enthusiastically celebrated a point during their match at the Canada Open. "Why are you shouting like that?" Sinner questioned, before ultimately losing the match 3-6, 4-6.

Duckworth, who was ranked in the top 50 during that encounter with Sinner, has since dropped to number 88. He received a wildcard entry for this year's Australian Open and needed 5 sets in the first round to defeat Dino Prizmic. Duckworth's best Grand Slam performance was reaching the third round of Wimbledon in 2021.

"I know Sinner's level now is very high compared to our previous match," the 33-year-old player said. "I've beaten him before, but this time it will be very difficult. Sinner is excellent in Australia, but I will play offensively and perhaps I can trouble him."

Sinner (right) has won 2 of 3 encounters against Duckworth. Photo: Sky Italy

One of Duckworth's motivations for competing in the Australian Open is his grandmother, Beryl Penrose, who won both the singles and women's doubles titles at the tournament in 1955. The Sydney-born player aims to deliver his best performances for the home crowd, while also honoring his late grandmother.

"I've been training for hours on court and in the gym every day to prepare for this year," Duckworth added. "If I had a choice, I'd want to play Sinner on court 6, which is closer to the fans. But playing Sinner will definitely be on Rod Laver Arena. This is a big challenge, but it's also something I look forward to, because it's rare to play in front of so many spectators."

Compared to Duckworth's 5-set battle, Sinner advanced easily from the first round after his opponent, Hugo Gaston, retired due to injury after 2 sets. The Italian player remains a top contender for the championship title, having shown consistent form over the past 3 years. Sinner could become the first player since Novak Djokovic to achieve a hat-trick of titles in Melbourne, which he considers a rare proud milestone in his career.

"In this sport, you can't think beyond the next match," the 24-year-old star said. "First, I need to get past Duckworth; the only thing I can control is training and preparation."

Vy Anh