Jannik Sinner was honored with a life-sized Terracotta Warrior statue at the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters, celebrating his triumph and rising influence in global tennis.
A Unique Tribute to a Champion
Ahead of his opening match at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, Jannik Sinner was greeted with a striking tribute: a clay statue modeled after China’s historic Terracotta Army. The sculpture, unveiled by tournament organizers, features Sinner’s distinct features and fiery red hair, blending ancient Chinese artistry with modern athletic excellence. The gesture commemorates his victory at the 2024 edition of the tournament and his continued dominance on the ATP Tour.
Sinner’s Reaction to the Statue
Sinner’s response to the unveiling was filled with humility and humor. Standing beside the statue, he laughed and remarked, “It’s stronger than me”, a moment that captured both his appreciation and light-hearted nature. In an interview with Tennis TV, he added, “It’s very strange to see for me. I am just 24 years old, and seeing a statue of one of the biggest events we play… it’s more like a mix of happy and proud”.
Cultural Symbolism and Sporting Excellence
The statue represents more than just a personal accolade. It symbolizes the fusion of Chinese heritage and the global reach of tennis. By honoring Sinner in this way, the Shanghai Masters highlighted the growing admiration for the Italian star across Asia. His composure, discipline, and fighting spirit—qualities reflected in the Terracotta Warrior—have defined his rise to the top of men’s tennis.
Sinner’s Form Heading into the Tournament
Sinner arrived in Shanghai fresh off a title win at the China Open in Beijing, where he defeated Learner Tien in the final. Despite battling a stomach issue during the tournament, he showed resilience, especially in his semi-final match against Alex de Minaur. Speaking about his condition, Sinner said, “I feel good… Here the situation is different, everything is more humid, hotter… Tomorrow I’ll have more information about my body and mind, then I’ll start preparing for my first-round match”
.The Road Ahead in Shanghai
As the defending champion and current World No. 2, Sinner enters the tournament as a favorite, especially with Carlos Alcaraz withdrawing due to injury. He is set to face Daniel Altmaier in the second round, with potential matchups against Tallon Griekspoor or Jenson Brooksby in the third. Novak Djokovic, a four-time Shanghai champion, remains a key contender, having lost to Sinner in last year’s final.
ATP Shanghai - Jannik Sinner's projected path
Jannik Sinner in 2025
At the moment ranked no.2, the Italian played his last match on the 3rd of October when he was defeated by Unknown Player bye in the 1st round in Shanghai (draw).
At the moment, during this season the Italian owns a composed 42-5 record. The Italian has won 3 titles in 2025 at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Sinner was the finalist in Rome, French Open, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Vienna. The main draw will start on the 20th of October.