Jannik Sinner looks ahead. © APA/afp / TIZIANA FABI

“I wasn’t paying attention”: Sinner practices self-criticism

For many, reaching the final of the ATP Finals and losing there against the best tennis player of all time would be reason enough to be extremely happy. But not for Jannik Sinner, who criticized himself after the match against Novak Djokovic.

20 November 2023

Jannik Sinner did an outstanding job in Turin. Something that no player from Italy had ever achieved. He has sparked unprecedented tennis hype across the country and even King football ousted. The fact that it wasn't enough to achieve the crowning achievement in the end is part of the learning process that Sinner began four years ago when he appeared on a big stage for the first time at the Next Gen ATP Finals. “I think Djokovic played very, very well today,” said the Sexten native. “But I also think that I wasn't paying attention in some moments. And that I’ve weakened a bit physically.”

That was crucial because “if you’re not at 100 percent against the best player in the world, the difference is big,” said Sinner. He tried to remain stubborn and stay in the game with his serve. “But I also made mistakes in concentration, like when I was 4:3 and making my debut in the third set, when I hit a slight forehand into the net. “The tension was great,” Sinner admitted. It was very difficult, but he enjoyed his time on the pitch. “Novak played better in the crucial moments and deserved to win.”

Sinner is grateful

What Sinner will take away from the ATP Finals? “A moment I will never forget was when I stepped onto the pitch against Stefanos Tsitsipas. I have never heard such cheers before. And that makes me aware of how much I am valued – especially as a person,” explains Sinner. Before the so-called off-season begins for the 22-year-old, he still has to compete in the Davis Cup.

In Turin, Sinner already drew a conclusion. “In the second half of the season I was mentally much stronger. I didn't complain so much when something didn't go my way. These things make the difference in the end. “I’m happy that I played so many important matches in the biggest stadiums in the world,” says Sinner.

The winner: Novak Djokovic © ANSA / ALESSANDRO DI MARCO

“This is a very special moment. It was definitely one of the best seasons of my career,” said Djokovic after his Tennis Gala. “I always wanted to play in front of my children when they were at an age where they understood what I was doing. I'm so happy to have two such angels." Like the Sexten native, the Serb will also be playing in the Davis Cup next week.