Jannik Sinner returns to the ATP Tour in Rome. © ANSA / JOEL CARRETT

“It’s like poker”: Sinner and his recipe for success

The ATP Masters kicks off in Rome on May 7. Jannik Sinner returns to the big stage at the highlight of the Italian clay court. The world number one from South Tyrol spoke in advance about his recipe for success on the court.

02 May 2025

From: never

Jannik Sinner's smashes disappeared from the ATP Tour for three months, but in just under a week, it's back: The three-time Grand Slam champion's name appears on the entry list for an official tournament. At the clay-court Masters in Rome, where he has never advanced beyond the quarterfinals, the 23-year-old aims to shine for the first time since his suspension. Sinner naturally wants to rely on his well-known strengths and revealed in the run-up to his comeback which of his moves he can always rely on.

“Tennis is like poker,” he explained in an interview with Rai 1"When you see the other player struggling, it gives you confidence and courage." But the Pustertal native is certainly familiar with such situations. "There are times when I'm not feeling the game, I get nervous because I want to show myself that I can do it, and there are many times when things don't go perfectly."

Sinner and the golden backhand

Ultimately, according to Sinner, it's all about keeping a cool head even in difficult moments on the court. "At the end of the day, it's just a game you have to get involved in. Breaking the ball or chopping up the racket doesn't make it any better," the world number one continued. His recipe for success in such moments is simple: with a special shot, he can crack even the toughest nuts. "My favorite shot is probably my backhand, which is the most powerful," he revealed.

Jannik Sinner celebrates his comeback. © GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / MINAS PANAGIOTAKIS

But even the world's best player sees room for improvement. "My serve still needs some work," Sinner admitted, while also glancing at the qualities of two opponents. "I envy Carlos Alcaraz and Lorenzo Musetti; they both have a very good feel for the ball."

Who Sinner will face in his first official match since his triumph at the Australian Open at the end of January has not yet been determined. The draw for the Masters tournament in Rome will take place on Monday, May 5.