Australian Open: Jannik Sinner dominates Alex de Minaur to set up meeting with Ben Shelton in Melbourne

Defending Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner dropped just six games as he dominated home favourite Alex de Minaur to charge into a semi-final showdown with big-hitter Ben Shelton.

The world No 1, who admitted struggling during his fourth-round battle with Holger Rune, was back in tip-top condition to dismantle the hopes of De Minaur on Rod Laver Arena with a comprehensive 6-3 6-2 6-1 victory.

Sinner produced a ball-striking masterclass to extend his winning streak against the eighth seed from Sydney to 10-0, including the last 20 consecutive sets.

Shelton survives a four set, nearly four hour war of attrition

The swagger, the big game, the colourful celebrations were on show as Shelton battled to a four-set win over Lorenzo Sonego to reach his second Grand Slam semi-final.

The big-serving American made his breakthrough at the Australian Open two years ago with a run to the quarter-finals on his debut before bettering that at the US Open.

The draw at Melbourne Park has opened up for the 22-year-old and he has taken full advantage, with his latest triumph a 6-4 7-5 4-6 7-6 (7-4) victory over unseeded Italian Sonego.

Sonego, ranked 55 and playing in his first Slam quarter-final, attacked the net repeatedly and threatened to take the contest to a deciding set.

Shelton showed his desire during the fourth-set tie-break by hurling himself across the court in an effort to retrieve a volley. After lying sprawled by the advertising hoardings, he showed he was still fighting fit with a press up.

And moments later Shelton was roaring with delight after booking a last-four spot.

“I feel relieved right now,” the left-hander said. “Shout out to Lorenzo Sonego because that was some ridiculous tennis. I’m really happy to be through, get my first win on Rod Laver Arena. It’s one of my favourite matches of my career.”

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