‘It’s amazing the way he was…’: Rafael Nadal Sends Plaudits To World No.1 Jannik Sinner For Keeping Laser-Sharp Focus On His Game Despite Being Hit With Massive Controversy
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has praised Jannik Sinner for his remarkable composure amidst the distractions of his doping case, describing Sinner’s focus as “amazing.”
Nadal, who retired in November after Spain’s Davis Cup Finals quarter-final loss, discussed a range of topics on Andy Roddick’s podcast, “Served with Andy Roddick,” including his retirement decision and rivalries with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.1
Sinner, the current world number one, faced a prolonged controversy regarding two positive clostebol tests last year.2 He ultimately agreed to a three-month suspension as part of a compromise with WADA, which will last until the Italian Open in May.3
Nadal emphasized the importance of respectful rivalries, stating, “We showed the world that we can be the biggest rivals but at the same time, we can be colleagues, we can have a good personal relationship.4 I think that shows a positive example to the next generations, I am proud of that. I think that helps this new generation to understand you don’t need to hate your opponents, you can respect, you can appreciate the opponent, because in the end they are an important part of your life, so you don’t need to hate opponents to give your best.”
Andy Roddick drew comparisons between Nadal’s demeanor and that of the new generation of top tennis players, including Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek.5
Nadal spoke highly of Alcaraz, with whom he played doubles at the Olympics last year, saying, “Carlos is a great kid. Great guy with a very good family behind him, with positive values. Humble. They’re good people. That’s why I think Carlos is how he is. Because in the end, the values you receive at home, the way you’re educated is the way that you show up. I see the same with Iga.”
He then focused on Sinner, saying, “Jannik is another good guy. Not much of a show off. He’s focused on what he’s doing. Of course, he went through a very tough process the last year. It’s amazing the way he was able to keep being focused on what he’s doing. It’s a new generation of great tennis players. I think they’re going to keep helping this beautiful sport to grow and to engage fans.”
