Sinner surges back to announce his arrival as new tennis superstar

Another early night beckoned with Daniil Medvedev seemingly cruising but Italian found his forehand in a blockbuster finale

Hurtling through another one-sided decider, the world of tennis held its breath. Much was riding on the first Australian Open final since 2005 without one of the so-called “big three”. A sign of things to come, in a sport wrestling with change. But with Daniil Medvedev having his way with the emerging Italian Jannik Sinner, a simple contest – even a skerrick of competition – was all anyone wanted.

Another early night beckoned. It was a shame, given the ingredients were there for a spectacle worthy of Hollywood. There was the imperious Russian. The Bond girl watching on. A glistening sunset, an eternal summer eve. A boy of promise, a likeable if ungainly hero. Perhaps more Ron than Harry, but who’s complaining.