Jannik Sinner has openly acknowledged the profound influence Novak Djokovic has had on his tennis career following the Serbian’s impressive second-round victory at Wimbledon against Dan Evans. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, showcased his exceptional skills on grass with a commanding win, finishing the match with scores of 6-3, 6-2, 6-0.
After witnessing Djokovic’s performance, Sinner, currently the world No. 1 and just 23 years old, admitted that Djokovic is the player who has significantly shaped his game. He remarked on the differences and similarities between their playing styles. Sinner noted that while they both hit the ball with fervor, Djokovic’s experience allows him to navigate matches with a unique tactical approach. Sinner highlighted Djokovic’s strong serve and remarkable movement on the grass court as key factors in his game, expressing admiration for the way Djokovic mixes up his gameplay.
“I believe he gave me a lot of information… that I could make my game similar to his, but in my style,” Sinner stated, reinforcing the idea that he seeks to learn from the best. His respect for Djokovic’s technique and accomplishments did not go unnoticed, as many in the tennis community praised Sinner’s mindset, acknowledging that such humility and dedication may set him on a path toward greatness.
Notably, Sinner’s tennis career is already marked by significant achievements, including winning his first Grand Slam title at the 2024 Australian Open, followed by another title at the US Open later that year. As he aims to add to his collection, his reflections on Djokovic serve as both a tribute and a source of motivation.
The relationship between Sinner and Djokovic mirrors that of other emerging stars in the sport; Sinner’s keen observation of Djokovic’s approach could play a pivotal role in his continued development and success. As he prepares for future matches, including their nine previous encounters, Sinner stands poised to carve out his legacy while honoring the inspirations that paved the way.