Anticipation was high among the Australian fans arriving at Rod Laver Arena that De Minaur could cause a shock – particularly given the uncertainty about Sinner’s condition.
De Minaur came into the match with a terrible record against his opponent, losing all nine of their previous matches and winning just one set in the process.
The 25-year-old was looking to end that unwanted run and become the first home player since 2005 to reach the men’s singles semi-finals.
But what was expected to be a raucous atmosphere in the night-session match failed to materialise.
It was testament to Sinner’s assured display that he largely silenced the majority of the 15,000 fans.
Sinner struck the ball sweetly and consistently to outlast De Minaur in the rallies.
Clinching six breaks of serves, and saving just the one chance for De Minaur in the second set, illustrated his dominance.
“I was feeling everything today. When you break early in each set it is a little bit easier,” added Sinner.
A pale-looking Sinner was visibly shaking in his chair during his fourth-round win over Rune and benefitted from an enforced 20-minute break when the net broke.
After beating De Minaur, he said he had “a very easy day” on Tuesday and hit with his coaches for only “half an hour or 40 minutes” to maintain rhythm.
“I felt ready for today,” Sinner added.
“When you play a night session you try to sleep as long as you can and eat healthy.”
