Melbourne, Jan. 24 -- World No. 2 Jannik Sinner overcame cramps and survived a major third-round challenge from Eliot Spizzirri of the United States to keep his Australian Open title defence alive on Saturday.
The Italian's bid for a third straight triumph in Melbourne remains on track after he beat the American 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in three hours and 45 minutes.
As temperatures soared at Rod Laver Arena, the four-time Grand Slam champion needed medical attention early in the third set after struggling with cramps.
On resumption, he laboured around the court as Spizzirri capitalised to lead 3-1 before play was suspended due to the closure of the retractable roof as the extreme heat reached an unbearable level.
The match turned as a reliev...