After Sparking Controversy With Anna Kalinskaya Comment, Jannik Sinner Narrates Emotional Moment With Hard-Working Parents That Defined His Year
Jannik Sinner is heading into the ATP Finals with a clear focus on his happy place. Despite facing the shadows of a doping controversy, he remains determined to overcome challenges. Winning a total of seven titles this season and maintaining his No.1 ranking since June this year! Surely there’s a secret to it. But it’s as simple as having the right company is crucial for motivation to him. Especially as he prepares for the final tournament of his impressive season.
In an interview with Vogue, Sinner shared his highlight of the 2024 season: winning the Australian Open. He triumphed over Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling match on January 28, with a score of 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3. This victory marked his first Grand Slam title. Reflecting on that moment, he said, “My first big title, in Australia, my first Grand Slam. Why? Because… because I won.”
What stands out for Sinner is not just the title but the joy of sharing that moment with his parents. While many recalled watching the Italian falling backward on the court in celebration after delivering the final shot to Medvedev, Sinner cherishes the memory of seeing his parents after his win. “Just seeing them happy and spending some time with them. I don’t have so much time with my parents, so it was a very nice moment,” he said. Being on the road can be tough for players due to fatigue and homesickness. And naturally, one would assume this relationship with his girlfriend in the WTA adds another layer to this challenge.
However, on November 9, he mentioned that his relationship has remained stable since it began this year. The tennis couple only confirmed their relationship at the French Open this year, fans have been elated to see their few interactions. Notably the kiss they shared after Sinner won the US Open against Taylor Fritz in September. When asked about Kalinskaya’s impact on his season, he stated, “I don’t think anything has changed. Having a girlfriend is something that either makes you feel good or makes you feel bad. I want it to be something that feels very natural.” He emphasized that he doesn’t want to change as a player or person, which is why their relationship works.
So clearly, it’s a mix of personal memories and professional aspirations as he gears up for the ATP Finals, ready to face whatever comes his way. Even with the doping controversy hanging over his head, he still managed to find a positive outlook on the situation!
Sinner reveals what is most important to him during the downs of the tour
In March, Sinner tested positive for Clostebol after unknowingly using a spray applied by his former physiotherapist. Although the ITIA cleared him of wrongdoing, WADA is appealing for a fair trial. As he awaits the final verdict from CAS, Sinner remains optimistic, especially about competing in his home country. “Turin is always special, this year even more so. Many more people are involved in tennis and it’s nice that it is so,” he shared with the Turin press ahead of the tournament.
Despite the pressure from the ongoing controversy, Jannik Sinner has adapted well. “I’ve already been in this position three times this year. It’s all been going very well so far,” he noted. However, he acknowledged that “playing with this situation is not optimal.” The controversy gained traction just before the US Open, but Sinner maintained his composure, winning two tournaments and finishing as runner-up in another since then. His resilience was on display at the Shanghai Masters, where he defeated Novak Djokovic to secure his seventh title of the season.
At the Lavazza 2025 presentation on November 7th, Sinner discussed balancing mental and physical health amid a hectic schedule. He emphasized that athletes are not machines but people striving for their best every day. “I’m putting a lot of effort into always making improvements,” he stated. Also noting the most important factor to keep him going, “To do this, I need people around me who help me feel good.”
As he prepares for his first match against Alex de Minaur at the ATP Finals, his focus remains on improvement and leveraging home support to achieve victory. Will he add this title to his winning streak and make those close to him proud? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
