Sinner sparks controversy in Italy due to absence from Davis Cup

Jannik Sinner Sparks Debate After Davis Cup Decision

Jannik Sinner’s recent decision not to participate with Italy in the Davis Cup Finals 8 has sparked an intense debate in his home country. The tennis player, currently number two in the world, has been criticized after announcing that he will prioritize preparation for the upcoming season, instead of defending the title with the Italian team in Bologna next month. Sinner, who led Italy to victory in this tournament in the last two years, explained that his main focus is to start the season in the best possible way at the Australian Open, where he is the defending champion.

It wasn’t an easy decision, but after Turin, the goal is to start on the right foot in Australia.

Jannik Sinner

The news has generated various reactions in Italy. The newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport headlined on its front page: “Sinner, think again”. An editorial in the same publication criticized Sinner for mentioning his two Davis Cup titles, pointing out that he also participated in a lucrative exhibition in Saudi Arabia. Nicola Pietrangeli, Italian tennis legend, expressed his disappointment at Sinner’s decision.

It’s a huge slap in the face for the Italian sports world.

Nicola Pietrangeli

It should be remembered that Sinner received strong support from the Italians when he was sanctioned with a three-month suspension for doping at the beginning of the year. Adriano Panatta, who led Italy to their only other Davis Cup triumph in 1976, defended Sinner’s choice, arguing that team competition no longer has the same importance as in his time.

Nowadays, tennis demands complete dedication from players. Players are like CEOs of companies that bear their names. Sinner has won the Davis Cup twice and now needs a break to prepare for his main goals: winning Grand Slams, playing at Alcaraz’s level, reclaiming the number 1 spot. Those are his priorities.

Adriano Panatta

Paolo Bertolucci, also a member of the 1976 team and now a television commentator, agreed with Panatta.

I see nothing wrong with the decision. Tennis has changed. Nowadays, what counts are the four Grand Slams and then the ATP Finals. The rest is secondary.

Paolo Bertolucci