TURIN, Italy — Towering billboards featuring his image are prominently displayed throughout the city, while enthusiastic fans journey from all over Italy to catch a glimpse of him. His name resonates throughout the crowd at matches — a chant that rings out before, during, and after the games.
Amid the excitement and a looming doping investigation, most players might crumble under the pressure. However, Jannik Sinner embodies resilience. The talented tennis star from Alto Adige, a region in Italy where German is spoken, has transcended even soccer’s popularity in the past year, establishing himself as the nation’s premier sports figure.
Darren Cahill, one of Sinner’s coaches, commented at the ATP Finals that “It takes a unique person to accept this level of pressure, to feel it, and yet perform at peak capability.” He praised Sinner’s remarkable year, noting, “The more victories he secures against the world’s elite players, the stronger his self-belief becomes. It’s been a significant year of growth for him.”
Sinner’s ongoing success during a doping investigation has been described as motivational. He is competing in his homeland for the first time since making headlines for allegedly testing positive for an anabolic steroid in two separate instances earlier this year. Although an independent tribunal initially cleared him, the World Anti-Doping Agency filed an appeal in September, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport set to deliver a verdict next year.
“He competes with a clean conscience and has been for quite a while. The future remains uncertain, but we will continue to support him,” Cahill expressed, highlighting Sinner’s inspirational qualities. “Witnessing his achievements is something truly special.”
To address the doping incident, Sinner explained that the steroid inadvertently entered his system during a massage from a physiotherapist who had applied a topical spray for a personal injury. He subsequently dismissed both the physiotherapist and fitness coach, bringing in Marco Panichi and Ulises Badio, who have previously worked with Novak Djokovic to his team.
Sinner’s serious training with Panichi and Badio is set to kick off after the season concludes with the Davis Cup finals. “Winning two Grand Slam titles necessitates a high level of fitness,” remarked Simone Vagnozzi, Sinner’s other co-coach, emphasizing that the 23-year-old still has much room for growth.
Carlos Alcaraz is the only player to have triumphed against Sinner multiple times this year, winning all their official encounters thus far. However, Sinner recently avenged his losses in an exhibition match last month. The two might face off yet again in the semifinals this Saturday.
Cahill is certain of the rivalry’s longevity, predicting, “Sinner and Alcaraz could compete against each other as many as 70 times over the next 15 years.” He views each match against Alcaraz as a valuable opportunity for Sinner, emphasizing the importance of continual learning and improvement.
So far, Sinner and Alcaraz have met in 10 official matches, with Alcaraz leading the head-to-head series at 6-4. If their rivalry reaches the projected 70 encounters, it would surpass the historical record set between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic during the men’s Open era.
Cahill, who has previously taken four players to the top ranking, refers to Vagnozzi as Sinner’s primary coach. With his vast background in the sport, Cahill acknowledges the significance of his experience in aiding Sinner’s progress. At age 59, Cahill indicates he may be nearing the end of his coaching career, with Sinner being his final full-time commitment.
When asked how long he might continue with Sinner, Cahill stated, “As long as he wishes. Each player eventually benefits from a fresh perspective, but currently, our collaboration is flourishing.”
Cahill shared a lighthearted moment recently, posting an image of Sinner on a Vespa heading to practice in Monaco. The choice of transportation in the famously winding streets, known for their challenges, sparked questions about the potential risk it poses for a top athlete.
He chuckled, saying, “Most tennis players embrace a bit of risk in their lives.” Having transitioned from competitive skiing to tennis, Sinner also enjoys winter sports during the offseason. “The sport demands quick reflexes and strong emotions. To unwind, finding outlets like these is essential. Jannik is wise and knows how to protect his long-term career interests.”