Jannik Sinner has returned to Melbourne for the 2026 Australian Open, which starts later this month.
Sinner is second in the ATP Tour rankings behind Carlos Alcaraz, but the Italian has won the last two Australian Open titles.
He defeated Daniil Medvedev for his maiden Grand Slam success in 2024, and defended his title against Alexander Zverev in 2025.
The leading ATP duo are now both in Melbourne after an exhibition match in Korea, where Alcaraz beat Sinner 7-5, 7-6.
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Jannik Sinner practices with Dane Sweeny before Australian Open
The Italian has wasted no time in preparing for the hard-court Grand Slam, having taken to Margaret Court Arena for a practice session.
He was joined on the court by Dane Sweeny, the 24-year-old Australian who is currently ranked 183rd on the ATP Tour.
His career-high ranking is 181st in the world, with two wins and four losses among his brief ATP career efforts so far.
Sweeny did just enjoy a memorable time at the Brisbane International, where he beat British number three Jacob Fearnley in qualifying.
The Australian also beat his compatriot Christopher O’Connell, but lost his opening main draw match to Reilly Opelka.
Sweeny put up a great fight against the American in front of his hopeful fans, but lost 6-3, 7-5 in the round of 32.
And he was extremely upbeat despite the loss, with the 5’7” Australian humorously standing on a chair when hugging his 6’11” opponent at the net.
The towering American made use of that frame in his next match at the event, where Opelka hit a huge 44 aces but still lost to Kamil Majchrzak.
Carlos Alcaraz and Felix Auger-Aliassime set for Australian Open practice session
Alcaraz has also already been back on the courts in Melbourne, easing himself into action before the main draw gets underway.
He will practice with ATP rival Felix Auger-Aliassime on Monday, while Alex de Minaur will practice with Zverev.
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On the WTA Tour, Naomi Osaka will be joined on the court by Donna Vekic, with Amanda Anisimova set to train with Jasmine Paolini.
Also involved in their own practice sessions are the likes of Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe and Elena Rybakina.
The session arrives ahead of Australian Open Opening Week, where Sinner will play Auger-Aliassime and Alcaraz will take on De Minaur.
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