Jannik Sinner became the first Italian player to win a grand slam since 1976 after defeating Russian opponent Daniil Medvedev in the men’s Australian Open final on Sunday.

He overcame a two-set deficit to defeat Medvedev 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in a thrilling five-set final, CNN News reported.

It was a memorable tournament for the 22-year-old tennis player for Sinnner in which he also defeated world No 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals, paving his way to his first-ever grand slam title

He collapsed to the floor before returning to his feet to savour his moment on Rod Laver Arena, climbing into his box to hug coaches Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill.

“I’m so proud,” Sinner told Eurosport after making history. “It was a tough match. He started off really well, he moved me around the court, [but] I couldn’t make my gameplan work.

But then somehow in the third set, I was looking for the small chances which I used and then at some point, the match changed and I’m really happy how I reacted. Now there are so many emotions, I think I have to sit down and process it but obviously an unbelievable feeling.“

Former US Open champion Medvedev, who has now lost five of his six finals in the majors, said Sinner deserved to win.

“You fought to the end and you managed to raise your level,” said the 27-year-old. “You and your team are doing an amazing job.

“I hope I can try to get the next one if we play in a final.”

(With input from AFP)