College Star Spizzirri Storms Into Australian Open Third Round, Draws Defending Champ Sinner
MELBOURNE, January 23, 2026 – American Eliot Spizzirri, a former University of Texas standout, has authored the deepest Grand Slam run of his young career at the Australian Open, earning a daunting third-round showdown with two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner. Spizzirri’s five-set victory over China’s Yibing Wu on Thursday underscores a significant trend emerging in Melbourne: the pipeline from U.S. college tennis to the ATP Tour’s biggest stages is stronger than ever.
A Breakthrough in Melbourne
Spizzirri, 24, secured his maiden trip to the third round of a major with a gritty 6-2, 6-4, 6-7(4), 4-6, 6-3 win over qualifier Wu Yibing. The match, lasting 3 hours and 43 minutes, saw the world No. 85 rally after surrendering a two-set lead to clinch victory in a deciding fifth set. Just days prior, Spizzirri had notched his first-ever win at the Australian Open by upsetting 28th-seeded Joao Fonseca.
His reward is a monumental challenge: a Saturday match on Rod Laver Arena against World No. 2 Jannik Sinner. “It would be an awesome experience,” Spizzirri said before the matchup was confirmed. “Going against one of the best players in the world and one of the toughest challengers in our sport. I would be grateful to be out there and do the best I can.”
Key Facts: Eliot Spizzirri
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Age & Nationality | 24, United States (Born Greenwich, Connecticut) |
| Current ATP Ranking | No. 85 (Career-high: No. 85) |
| College | University of Texas (ITA National Player of the Year, 2023 & 2024) |
| Height | 6 feet, 1 inch (185 cm) |
| 2026 Australian Open Result | Third Round (Career Best) |
| Prize Money (AO 2026 to date) | $327,750 |
| Next Opponent | Jannik Sinner (ITA) [2] – January 24 on Rod Laver Arena |
The College Tennis Surge
Spizzirri is not an anomaly in this year’s draw. He is one of seven American men to reach the third round, four of whom—including Ben Shelton (Florida), Learner Tien (USC), and Ethan Quinn (Georgia)—played collegiate tennis within the past five years. In total, 25 men with college experience entered the main draw, the highest number since 1989.
“It’s a testament to the level of tennis being played in college,” said Stanford men’s head coach Paul Goldstein, a former pro. The ecosystem provides elite training facilities, high-level competition, and time for physical and mental maturation, which players like Spizzirri have leveraged into professional success.
“I think college players are dogs for the most part,” top American Ben Shelton remarked, highlighting the toughness bred in team environments. Spizzirri echoed the sentiment, noting the camaraderie among former college players on tour provides mutual confidence.
A Daunting Challenge Ahead
The stage is set for Spizzirri’s greatest test. He has never faced Sinner and has limited experience against top-10 opposition. However, he does have a unique memory to draw upon: a 2019 training session with his idol, Roger Federer, inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. His longtime coach, Patrick Hirscht, recalled how Federer’s demeanor made the cavernous stadium feel normal—a lesson that could prove invaluable on Rod Laver Arena.
“We know the things we do well and when we execute them we compete to win at the highest level,” said Spizzirri’s traveling coach, Christopher Williams. “With a match like this, I’m paying a bit more attention to the stage and making sure we are comfortable in the Rod Laver environment so we can be at our best.”
Sinner, who advanced comfortably past James Duckworth, acknowledged Spizzirri’s form. “Very aggressive, talented player,” the Italian said. “So let’s see what’s coming.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Eliot Spizzirri’s tennis background?
Eliot Spizzirri was a tennis star at the University of Texas, winning the ITA National Player of the Year award twice (2023, 2024). He turned professional after graduating and broke into the top 100 in 2025, winning his first ATP Challenger title in San Diego.
Has Spizzirri ever played Jannik Sinner before?
No. Their third-round match at the 2026 Australian Open will be the first-ever meeting between Eliot Spizzirri and Jannik Sinner.
How many American men with college ties are in the Australian Open third round?
Four of the seven American men in the third round have college ties: Ben Shelton (Florida), Learner Tien (USC), Eliot Spizzirri (Texas), and Ethan Quinn (Georgia). This highlights the growing success of the U.S. college system as a development pathway.
What is at stake for Spizzirri in the third round?
A victory would propel Spizzirri into the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time, earn him 180 ranking points, and add $152,250 to his tournament earnings for a total of $480,000. More importantly, it would represent one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.