Jannik Sinner explains the pressure of playing for the country after sending Italy to the Davis Cup final
Jannik Sinner is looking to land a second consecutive Davis Cup title for Italy this Sunday and a third overall.
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Jannik Sinner (Image via X)
Defending champions Italy are through to the Davis Cup final after beating Australia in a rematch of last year’s title match. Jannik Sinner and Matteo Berrettini secured singles wins on Saturday in Malaga. Berrettini edged out Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-5, while Sinner defeated Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4, giving Italy a 2-0 win in the semifinal.
In his post-match interview, Sinner shared his thoughts on his victory. He said that both teams felt pressure, but it was different because they were representing their countries. The World No.1 started strong, breaking de Minaur early, though the Aussie fought back to level the first set at 2-2. However, Sinner regained control, breaking twice to win the first set.
There’s a lot of pressure. It’s a bit different because you have this good weight of the whole country on your shoulders. This is exactly what I practice for. These are moments I like to play in. It’s been a long season. At the end, it’s gonna be the last official day for us. We’re very happy it’s the final of Davis cup. I’ll try to do my best and keep it together. If we win it’s amazing.. if not, we’ve done an incredible job to be in this position and play for a huge trophy.
Jannik Sinner in the post-match interview at the Davis Cup
The second set was tightly contested, with no break points until Sinner created three in the ninth game. He converted the third and served out the match confidently. The victory keeps Italy’s hopes of defending their title alive.
Sinner after beating de Minaur to take Italy to 2nd consecutive Davis Cup finals
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) November 23, 2024
“You’re in incredible form. Talk us through how you’re able to come out under pressure and play as relaxed as you did at the start..”
Jannik: “There’s a lot of pressure. It’s a bit different… pic.twitter.com/jBW2MkwDXi
The Netherlands also reached the final with a 2-0 win over Germany in the other semifinal. If lineups stay the same, Berrettini is set to play Botic van de Zandschulp, while Sinner will face Tallon Griekspoor in Sunday’s final. For doubles, Italy listed Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori, while Germany nominated Kevin Krawietz and Tim Putz.
How did Jannik Sinner dominate the 2024 season?
Jannik Sinner showed great improvement at the end of 2023. This year, he has taken his game to an incredible new level. His confidence soared after he beat Novak Djokovic in the ATP Finals group stage and helped Italy win the Davis Cup. In 2024, Sinner became world No. 1 and won his first Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and the US Open.
One key to Sinner’s success has been his improved serve. At the start of 2023, he served with his back foot flat, but his coach, Darren Cahill, helped change that. Now, he serves with his back heel lifted, giving him better reach and power. He has also adjusted his racket’s starting position, holding it in front of his knee. These changes made his serve more efficient and reliable, even under pressure.
Sinner’s mentality has also been a huge factor. Beating Djokovic late last year gave him belief in his ability to compete with the best. This confidence showed when he defeated the 24-time Grand Slam champion in the Australian Open semifinals, solidifying his place as world No. 1. He has also become better at sticking to his game plans and staying focused.
Sinner faced challenges off the court, including two failed drug tests in March. Despite this, he remained mentally strong and kept performing at a high level. The doping case will continue into 2025 after an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency, but Sinner has stayed focused on his game, blocking out the distractions.
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Fahad Hamid
(624 Articles Published)