Jannik Sinner recovered from a slow start against the world number 173. Tristan Schoolkate and kept his title defense at the Australian Open on track.

Sinner, who won his first major title in Melbourne last year, had not lost a set since the Shanghai Masters in October.

But Australian Schoolkate thrilled a partisan crowd at Rod Laver Arena as he struck 5-4, winning the opener and ending Sinner’s 29-set winning streak.

However, the wildcard couldn’t keep up with the top seed as Sinner shifted gears and secured a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win and a place in the third round.

The 23-year-old is the youngest player to win nine consecutive men’s singles matches at the Australian Open since Novak Djokovic between 2008 and 2009.

When asked how this year felt different than when he won the title, Sinner said: “It’s a different feeling, but I’ve had so many beautiful moments here on and off the pitch. It’s different, but I’m using it as an opportunity.” it again.

“There is still a very, very long way to go. We move on day by day. When we see my level today, we know that I can improve.”

Sinner is taking part in the Australian Open for the first time since failing two doping tests in March.

His doping case will be heard by the International Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) in April after the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed the decision to acquit him.

Schoolkate came into this year’s tournament with just two Grand Slam match wins, but he made Sinner look anything but good in the first set.

The two-time major winner struggled to cope with Schoolkate’s aggressive play at the net, with the home favorite taking 17 of his 18 net points to take the first set.

Sinner had to wait 80 minutes to take advantage of his first chance to break, but he took it with both hands and from then on it was smooth sailing for the defending champion, who faces American Marcos Giron in the third round on Saturday.