World No. 1 Jannik Sinner made a successful return to the ATP Tour at the 2025 Italian Open, defeating Argentina’s Mariano Navone 6-3, 6-4 in his first match since winning the Australian Open in January.
The 23-year-old Italian had been sidelined for three months due to a suspension following two positive doping tests in March 2024. His return in Rome marked his 22nd consecutive victory, the longest ATP winning streak by a player under 24 since Juan Martin del Potro’s 23-match run in 2008.
Speaking after the win, Sinner opened up about the emotional rollercoaster, the fan support, and his mindset going forward.
On the Crowd Reception and Being Back on Court
“It’s definitely at the top,” Sinner said when asked about the reception he received. “It was amazing to be back on court after such a long time, with incredible support from day one. I’d been waiting for this moment, and I’m really happy. Now I’m looking forward to at least one more match here—then we’ll see.”
On Managing Expectations and Enjoying the Moment
“It’s a different feeling, for sure,” he said. “We prepared as best we could, but I was missing that feedback you only get from official matches. Now, I have a clearer picture of what’s working and what needs improving. Hopefully I can get one or two more matches in and continue to build from there. That’s my goal—everything else is a bonus.”
On Match Intensity and the Mental Shift from Practice
“Even when it looks easy, it’s a roller coaster inside,” Sinner admitted. “The nerves hit right from the start—serving, moving, getting into rhythm. Practice is more relaxed, but I love competition. Today, I felt good on court, which is what I missed most. We’ll focus on small improvements because those details matter. Tomorrow’s a rest day, and we’ll use it wisely.”
On the Support From Fans and the Rise of Italian Tennis
“It means more than any result,” Sinner said of the crowd support. “From the first practice, the energy has been amazing. There are so many Italians doing well—Musetti in the top 10 for the first time, Matteo [Berrettini] is from here—it’s a great time for Italian tennis.”
On Fashion and On-Court Style
When asked about his preference for monochrome outfits on court:
“I’ve always played in all black here in Rome—it’s something I wanted to continue. Maybe I’ll change in the future, but I like darker tones over bright colours like orange or yellow. Off-court fashion? I’m still learning. I’m just a normal 23-year-old.”
On Self-Doubt During His Time Away
“Of course I had doubts. It would be strange not to. I had them before stepping on court today, and I’ll have them before the next match. But doubts mean you care. They mean you want to improve and do something special. We all live with doubts every day.”
Sinner now moves forward in the Italian Open with the aim of regaining match sharpness and continuing his winning streak—fuelled by the energy of the home crowd and a grounded sense of purpose.
