Jannik Sinner defeated James Duckworth 6–1, 6–4, 6–2 in the first round of the Australian Open on hard court on 22 January 2026, a result entirely consistent with pre-match odds that installed Sinner as a prohibitive favourite at 1.01 against Duckworth's 22.15. The Italian's commanding performance across three sets suggested minimal resistance from his Australian opponent, with each set demonstrating progressive control. Sinner's dominant display maintains his momentum as the tournament's top contender heading into the second round.