Ben Shelton said uncharacteristic errors at crucial moments had proved costly during his Australian Open semi-final loss against defending champion Jannik Sinner on Friday, after the American squandered the chance to go a set up early in the match.

Defending champion Jannik Sinner has overcome some third-set cramping to beat Ben Shelton 7-6 (2), 6-2, 6-2 to return to the Australian Open final as he pursues a third Grand Slam title.

Jannik Sinner did not have it all his own way in a fascinating Australian Open semifinal, as Ben Shelton showed he will be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come on the men's tour.