“Is €70 million a year not enough?” – Jannik Sinner’s Monaco residence berated by Italian journalist

Jannik Sinner’s decision to make Monaco his home has once again sparked debate, with an Italian journalist questioning why the world No. 1 chose to leave his home country despite earning millions each year.

Monaco has long been a popular destination for elite athletes, particularly tennis players. The principality offers several advantages, including favorable tax policies, world-class training facilities, privacy, and a central location for the European tennis calendar. Sinner has been both a resident and tax resident of Monaco since relocating there.

The move also makes practical sense from a sporting perspective. Living in Monaco places Sinner just minutes away from the Monte-Carlo Masters and within easy reach of other major European tournaments in Madrid, Rome, Paris, and London. Later in the season, he can conveniently travel to the Paris Masters before returning to Italy for the ATP Finals in Turin.

Training opportunities are another major benefit. Earlier in his career, Sinner trained at the Piatti Tennis Academy in Bordighera, Italy, which is only a short drive from Monaco. More recently, he has taken advantage of the state-of-the-art tennis facilities available in the principality, giving him access to everything he needs to compete at the highest level.

Italian journalist criticizes Sinner’s relocation

Despite the sporting benefits, critics continue to argue that tax advantages were the main motivation behind Sinner’s move.

Italian journalist Luca Sommi recently questioned the decision during a television appearance, comparing Sinner to Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz, who has remained a tax resident in Spain while continuing to live and train in his hometown of Murcia.

“It bothers me,” Sommi said. “Sometimes I ask myself the same question. You earn €70 million a year, so why not do what Alcaraz has done and keep your tax residence in Spain? Isn’t €70 million a year enough?”

The comments reignited a debate that has followed Sinner throughout his rise to the top of men’s tennis.

Sinner explains why Monaco suits him

Sinner has previously addressed the reasons behind his relocation, insisting that privacy and the quality of life—not just financial considerations—played a significant role.

In an interview with L’Equipe, the Italian explained that Monaco allows him to live a relatively normal life despite being one of the world’s biggest tennis stars.

“I chose Monaco because of the peace and quiet I find here,” Sinner said. “I can go to a restaurant or shopping without attracting attention, and that’s exactly what I need. The tennis courts and gyms are also outstanding.”

He admitted that being away from his family is difficult, especially as his grandparents grow older, but believes the sacrifice has been necessary for his career.

“If I had stayed at home to train, I wouldn’t have had the best possible conditions to become the player I wanted to be,” he added.

Success on the court supports the decision

Whatever the reasons behind the move, Sinner’s results suggest it has been a successful decision.

The Italian has enjoyed an extraordinary run, winning six consecutive ATP Masters 1000 titles, including his first Monte-Carlo Masters crown, while also successfully defending his Wimbledon title. His only major disappointment came at Roland Garros, but he has otherwise dominated the men’s tour.

Meanwhile, rival Carlos Alcaraz has spent time sidelined with a wrist injury, allowing Sinner to strengthen his grip on the world No. 1 ranking.

Sinner will now look to extend his remarkable winning streak at the Canadian Open before turning his attention to the Cincinnati Open and the US Open. After falling to Alcaraz in last year’s US Open final, he will be eager to capture the title at Flushing Meadows and continue one of the most impressive stretches of his career.