Jannik Sinner, Australian Open: 5 things we like about the champion

“This is what dreams are made of.” Jannik Sinner he writes it under the official photo, the one in civilian clothes, all Gucci for him, taken the day after his victory at the Australian Open. Jannik Sinner's dreams are built with concrete work, awareness and foresight starting from that of his parents. The five things that make the Italian tennis player exceptional.

The head

Among the comments on social media in the hours following Jannik Sinner's victory there is one that is repeated: «Can you tell me his mental coach?». Yes, because overturning a match, which is your first Slam final, in which you lost the first two sets is a titanic undertaking physically, but above all mentally. Sinner changed his game, asked for advice, reversed positions and, with the awareness that distinguishes him, chose the right attitude. Sinner's secret is to never lose heart, to always remain clear-headed: it's all a matter of the head and having it like that at 22 is already a promise in perspective.

The commitment

He said it in the press conference and repeated it to Corriere della Sera: we need to go back to the gym, build muscles and study again. «I am happy to have given joy to the Italian fans and to have done a positive thing for the country but the work is not finished, on the contrary: it has just begun. I have to get back to the gym, get stronger physically, even mentally a little something can be added. At a certain point Simone Vagnozzi told me: take a step back. I should have thought about it, done it first, that step back». Also a great sign of humility.

The smile

“When you make a good point, smile.” The advice comes from the other coach, Darren Cahill, who joined the Sinner team a year and a half ago and the difference has been seen. A lightness has been added to the awareness that leads to playing point by point, game after game. It also leads to funny but meaningful interviews after victories: from the missed Baywatch physique to the good morning given to Italy after the semi-final win over Djokovic.

Autonomy

This is thanks to his parents who left him the freedom to pursue his dreams. At 13 he went to Bordighera to Riccardo Piatti and when the time came he decided to leave the master who brought him among the greats. In this Sinner demonstrates the ability to choose and autonomy. «I was lucky that my parents didn't put pressure on me: that's not the case for all young guys trying to build a career. Then, you become strong with work”. And not a public word came from them.

Privacy

Directly connected is the desire to maintain one's privacy. Little is known about the family, practically nothing about the girlfriend: is she officially? Is the exit together at San Siro a confirmation? Is the message left to congratulate? The friends are those of the past, but there are also some on the circuit, from Sonego, Davis' partner, to the Polish Hurkacz. «I am very calm: I have no intention of altering my priorities, tennis will remain the most important thing in my life. Now I'll rest for a few days and then I'll go back to the field. There is nothing to change compared to before.” And on Sanremo? Sinner replies that he can't sing.