Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner, fresh from his historic Australian Open win, has returned to Rome with humility and a renewed determination to ascend to the top spot in the tennis world. The 22-year-old, who ended a 48-year Grand Slam drought for Italian men’s tennis, emphasized that the victory has not changed him as a person.
“I’m still the same guy I was before winning the title,” Sinner stated during a news conference at the Italian Tennis Federation’s headquarters. Despite the surge of ‘Sinnermania’ following his comeback victory over Daniil Medvedev, he remains grounded, saying, “I’m taking this popularity in my stride.”
Acknowledging the transient nature of success, Sinner added, “It’s possible that my results won’t be as good in the future.” He became the first Italian man to win a major since Adriano Panatta in 1976, a feat that has elevated him to the world No. 4.
Since his return to Rome, Sinner has met with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and is scheduled to be received by President Sergio Mattarella along with the Italian Davis Cup-winning team. The demands on his time have led to his withdrawal from the Marseille tournament, but he has declined an invitation to the Sanremo Italian Song Festival in early February.
Reflecting on his achievements and aspirations, Sinner expressed his eagerness to return to training and continue his journey. “The aim (of this season) was to get slightly better results in the Grand Slams than last year,” he explained. “Now I know what it means and the emotions it brings. I can’t wait to get back to work and try to feel that again.”
Having defeated both Novak Djokovic and Medvedev in Melbourne, Sinner is now eyeing the coveted title of the world’s No. 1 player. However, he recognizes the challenges and the need for gradual progress. “There’s a big difference between being in the top five and being in the top three,” he said. “I’m aware that I still need to improve my physical condition, my strength, and my endurance.”
Looking ahead, Sinner plans to return to the court in Rotterdam in mid-February, with his sights already set on the year’s second major at Roland Garros. As he continues to evolve as a player, the Italian sensation is determined to leave an indelible mark on the world of tennis.
Jannik Sinner in 2024
Ranked world no.4 (career-high), Jannik played his last match on the 28th of January when he overcame world no.3 Daniil Medvedev 3-6 3-6 6-4 6-4 6-3 in the final of the Australian Open to win his 12th career title.
Presently, during this year Sinner has a composed 7-0 match record. This year, Sinner won 1 title at the Australian Open.
Sinner will play next in Marseille (Open 13 Provence). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 5th of February.
Jannik Sinner |
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