Sinner sparks controversy: Withdraws from Davis Cup with Italy

Jannik Sinner sparks controversy by withdrawing from the Davis Cup

Jannik Sinner’s decision not to participate with Italy in the final phase of the Davis Cup has sparked a debate in his home country, where he was strongly defended during his doping case. Sinner, currently number two in the world and who led Italy to victory in this tournament in the last two years, prefers to focus on preparation for the next season instead of helping the “Azzurri” seek another title in Bologna next month.

“It wasn’t an easy decision, but after Turin [where the ATP Finals are played the week before the Davis Cup], the goal is to start on the right foot in Australia,” Sinner declared, referring to the Australian Open, where he is a two-time defending champion.

Jannik Sinner

The tennis player also added: “It doesn’t seem like it, but a week of preparation in that period can make a difference. We already won the Davis Cup in 2023 and 2024 and this time we decided this way with my team.” The reaction in Italy was immediate, with headlines like “Sinner, think again” in the *Gazzetta dello Sport*. An editorial in the same media outlet criticized Sinner for mentioning his two victories in the Davis Cup, highlighting his participation in a lucrative exhibition in Saudi Arabia.

“So you’re not going back to Riyadh for another 6 million dollars? If you win another Wimbledon, won’t you go to London anymore? Pasta, coffee… Every five minutes you promote an Italian product. Do it with tennis too,” said the editorial, referring to the multiple Italian brands that Sinner represents in commercials.

Editorial Gazzetta dello Sport

Nicola Pietrangeli, winner of the French Open twice and most successful Italian player before Sinner, commented: “It’s a big slap in the face for the Italian sports world.” This is not the first time Sinner has faced criticism for not representing Italy, as it also happened in 2023 and at the Paris Olympics. Adriano Panatta, who led Italy to their only other Davis Cup triumph in 1976, defended Sinner’s decision, arguing that the team competition does not have the same importance as in his time.

“Current 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,” wrote Panatta.

Adriano Panatta

Paolo Bertolucci, also a member of the 1976 team and current television commentator, agreed with Panatta: “I don’t see anything wrong with the decision. Tennis has changed. Today what counts are the four Grand Slams and then the ATP Finals. The rest are secondary things.”