Jannik Sinner toppled Novak Djokovic thanks to masterplan from 24-time Grand Slam winner’s youth coach

Riccardo Piatti has shaped the careers of two world No. 1s, coaching Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner. He mentored an 18-year-old Djokovic, parting ways in 2006 as the Italian shied from a full-time role. Still, those hours on court taught Piatti the Serb’s mental and physical game inside out.

In 2013, Piatti began guiding a teenage Sinner, drawing on Djokovic—then a six-time Grand Slam champ and ATP No. 1—as a benchmark. A decade later, Sinner, now 23, rules men’s tennis with three Grand Slams and the top ranking, boasting a 4-4 rivalry with Djokovic, including wins in their last three clashes like the 2024 Shanghai Masters final.

Piatti, whose resume includes Ivan Ljubicic and Milos Raonic, sticks to a consistent coaching philosophy: equip players to topple the best. Asked by Tennis Majors if Sinner and Djokovic share a style, he said, “No, it’s that Sinner and Alcaraz targeted Nadal and Djokovic. My aim with Jannik, knowing Djokovic from years back, was figuring out how he could beat him.”

He added, “I studied Nole a lot—worked with him—so it’s about finding someone to take down a player like that. I never coached Nadal or Federer, or it’d be a different approach. Now, I’d look for a kid to challenge Alcaraz or Sinner in eight to ten years. Sinner’s technique and movement echo Djokovic, but his shots pack more punch now. Nole’s older, sure, but Jannik’s got an edge.”

Djokovic’s mental fortitude shines when cornered—crowds against him or matches on the line. Sinner mirrors that resilience, unfazed by distractions. “They’re different yet alike,” Piatti noted. “Jannik’s stronger now—he’s younger. I forget how Novak was at that age, but he faced Roger and Rafa head-on. Mentally, they’re rock-solid—crystal clear on what’s needed and quick to act.”