JANNIK SINNER sealed a stunning straight sets victory over Ben Shelton to book his place in the Australian Open semi-finals – but only after some worrying scenes.
The Italian, 24, was spotted struggling to get his breathing under control early in the showdown.
And it resulted in there being concern over whether Sinner would be able to push through.
Todd Woodbridge, who was commentating on the clash for Australian broadcaster Channel Nine, said: “It’s kind of unusual to see him breathing so heavily in game one.
“It’s not like they’ve played 30-shot rallies. He could just be trying to settle his heart rate.”
Former Wimbledon and US Open winner Lleyton Hewitt was also worried, adding: “It’s a really distressed look at the moment.”
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The unusual antics came after Sinner also cramped up in the fierce Melbourne heat during his third round win over Eliot Spizzirri.
But the world No1, who is looking to be crowned the Australian Open champion for a third year in a row, notched a 6-3 6-4 6-4 triumph.
Sinner said: “It was a very tough match, like every time we play against each other.
“I’m very happy with how I handled the situation. I’m obviously happy to win in straight sets.
“Ben is an incredible player. Every time we face each other, it is very interesting to see so I am very happy.”
Sinner extended his unbeaten run Down Under to 19 matches and he also made history by overcoming Shelton, 23.
He became just the sixth man in the Open era to reach six semi-finals on the spin at majors.
And Sinner will face Novak Djokovic, who is chasing a record ELEVENTH Australian Open crown, for a place in the final.
The Serbian hit the headlines for snapping back at a reporter after advancing to the semi-finals thanks to Lorenzo Musetti being forced to quit with an injury.
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