Jannik Sinner has sparked controversy by declining an invitation to meet Sergio Mattarella, the Italian president, at the Quirinale following his Australian Open triumph. The 23-year-old's decision to skip the prestigious gathering at Mattarella's official residence has divided opinion across the nation.

MELBOURNE, Australia — Jannik Sinner beat Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-3 in the Australian Open final at Melbourne Park Sunday. The No. 1 seed prevailed over the No. 2 seed in a match ultimately decided by Zverev’s discomfort when coming forward, Sinner’s underrated first serve, and a kiss of death from the net.