Sinner continues to tear up hearts everywhere. It’s not just Zendaya who’s crazy about him: here’s another declaration of love.
Even before Novak Djokovic took the stage to collect his fifth Cartier statuette, the star of the evening was him, our own Jannik Sinner. Who was not at the Laureus Awards ceremony, having been awarded no title, but who was somehow present anyway, if only because of the kind words that were spent on his behalf on the eve of the big event.
Come, moreover, from two champions who to call them unforgettable would not do justice to their extraordinary careers. One is named Boris Becker, the other Martina Navratilova. Two tennis players who, this much is certain, need no introduction. And who would have guessed that Bum Bum, who coached the young upstart Holger Rune for a while, was one of the San Candido native’s greatest admirers?
“I love Jannik-these are his words-the reds look good together! When I look at Jannik I see a young Boris. I like his balance, I like his attitude on a mental level, whether he wins or loses, in that sense I think he is the best of all. Carlos may have more appeal when it comes to making certain shots, but Jannik normally wins the last point because of his mentality. He is much improved from a year ago and is an incredible competitor. “
Sinner scores: he won it
Becker also said wonders, rightly so, about Carlos Alcaraz, who even before Jannik upset the balance of the major circuit with his spacey, fast and extremely varied tennis.
“Jannik and Carlos are like the yin and yang of tennis,” the former tennis player said again, “the two opposites that attract. “In tennis these opposites are fundamental-Carlos and Jannik are very different in physique and game, but they are united by an incredible instinct that leads them to fight until the end, never giving up and exalting the audience.”
More praise came, then, from Navratilova: “I find him an outstanding tennis player,” she said referring to Jannik, “His progress has been incredible. In tennis, results come through hard work, and he represents the epitome of that attitude. He has a great work ethic and has improved in every aspect of the game.” One of those champions who brings everyone together, then, even a tennis neophyte like Zendaya. Because before his greatness, on the other hand, there is nothing to do but bow.