'He's been very supportive of me since August': Sinner Praises Draper's Unwavering Support

Jannik Sinner extended his comeback at the Rome Open with a commanding straight-sets win over Jesper de Jong. In the post-match press conference, the Italian star took a moment to commend training partner Jack Draper for his constant support and generous spirit throughout the suspension. Up next in the round of 16 is Francisco Cerundolo -arguably one of the season's most dangerous clay-court performers-, promising another stern test as Sinner continues to rebuild his rhythm.

'Positive energy every time I step on court'

Jannik Sinner continues his resurgence after being sidelined for three months due to the infamous doping suspension. The Italian is enjoying the opportunity of coming back at home in front of his crowd, an aspect that can't be left out regarding how much it means to the country to be able to witness again their best player perform while he's regaining rhythm towards the French Open.

Friendship first

Asked about his relationship with british tennis superstar Jack Draper, whom he has known for quite long and help Sinner train during the suspension in Monaco, Jannik smiled broadly:

"He's been very supportive of me since August, really, " he said, as he praised Draper for "being a very good friend."

The 2025 Indian Wells champion had previously declared that "it was very important for people to know that Sinner is a kind-hearted person and a genuine human being".

"He keeps showing up every day", Jannik added about Draper's steady ascent into the ATP top 5. "He's one of the best players, and maybe the most consistent player we have throughout this season...We are very similar as people. We are humble, we try to do our best on court and yeah of course, we are just very simple people."

That simplicity, he explained, is what underpins their bond. " His support meant so much to me...and whoever supported me in this spirit, I really, really appreciate that. It was positive energy.

"It was good with him to practice in Monaco a few weeks ago. I've always been a big fan of him...Of course, things get a little bit more competitive now because he's in the position where he is, a top five player. But it doesn't really matter because we have a great friendship, and we will keep that throughout our whole careers."

Shaking the rust off

The three Grand Slam champion also talked about his comeback form and ho he managed to lift his level against De Jong in the opening set. After all, it was only his second match after three and a half months off, but his body had held off quite well:

"Phisically, the first match was okay, I recovered quite good. But obviously every match is a bit different. The impact on our body is for sure different than only practice sessions. Today, I started off very well then I had a slight drop...Normally, this drop is about one and a half games, today it was three games, three and a half games, " he laughed. "But it's normal. It's the second match".

Every match, Sinner stressed, is another step forward. “Every chance I have to play one more match is very positive. I’m putting myself here that I can play the third match—it’s already very, very good for me and my progress.” He insists he won’t be content until his level is back to where he wants.

Jannik also praised today's rival, complimenting his game: "Jesper is, first of all, an amazing person,” said Sinner. “We got to know each other a little bit better in the last period. He is a very, very solid player, physically strong. He can run a lot. He has great forehand when he has time. Backhand, very solid. He tries to mix up the game with some drop shots, which today worked very, very well.”

Looking ahead: Cerundolo in the horizon

Jannik Sinner will have a big matchup on Wednesday, when he steps on the court to face Francisco Cerundolo. The argentinian has been one of the most consistent players this season, reachen the semis in Madrid defeating world's No.2, Alexander Zverev.

Cerundolo's record in 2025 is 24-10, achieving his best rank after the Spanish Masters. He now sits on the 18th position and will have against Sinner a chance to keep improving his wonderful mark against top 10 players.

“Of course, I know that I have to raise my level tomorrow. Let’s see what’s coming. But I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be a good test.”