Jannik Sinner came back to tennis on Saturday with a strong performance at the Italian Open. He defeated Mariano Navone with a score of 6-3, 6-4 in front of more than 10,000 fans at the Foro Italico in Rome.
Jannik Sinner Fans in Orange Show Love for Sinner
The crowd showed massive support, with many fans dressed in orange and some even wearing carrot costumes to match Sinner’s ginger hair. The World No. 1 said their energy helped him enjoy being back on court after being away for three months.
“It Feels Great to Be Back,” Says Sinner
Speaking to reporters, Sinner shared his feelings about returning:
“It has been amazing to go again on court after such a long time. The support has been great, even in the past few days. From the first day I arrived here, the feeling has been incredible.”
He said that the support from the crowd meant more to him than the result of the match itself.
Nervous but Motivated After Ban
Sinner admitted he was nervous about playing again. He had not played since February due to a doping ban, which he says he accepted reluctantly. The ban was connected to clostebol, a banned substance found in his system.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) later confirmed that the banned substance likely came from accidental contamination by his physiotherapist. There was no sign that Sinner had cheated on purpose.
“I Still Have Doubts,” He Confesses
Even after his win, Sinner said he still feels unsure:
“I had doubts before going on court today. I still have doubts about what will happen next.”
But he added that having doubts means he truly cares and wants to improve and achieve something great.
French Open Is the Main Goal
While winning in Rome is important, Sinner said his main focus is on preparing for the French Open later this month.
“We trained in the best way we could, but I was missing the feeling of playing real matches. Now I have a clearer idea of what I’m doing right and what still needs work.”
He hopes to play at least one or two more matches in Rome to better understand his current level.
Every Match Is a Bonus
For now, Jannik Sinner is focusing on getting back into form. He says every match he plays in Rome will help him prepare for bigger challenges.
“Hopefully I can stay in the tournament a bit longer. That’s my main goal. Everything else is a bonus.”
