Jannik Sinner has been declared the “overwhelming favourite” to defend his Australian Open title by former WTA stars Rennae Stubbs and Andrea Petkovic. Stubbs, known for her coaching stint with Serena Williams, also criticised current players for struggling with Australia’s intense heat, calling them “pussies” and “weak.”

Sinner’s 2024 Triumph and 2025 Prospects

The 23-year-old Italian clinched his first Grand Slam title at the 2024 Australian Open with a sensational comeback against Daniil Medvedev, overcoming a two-set deficit in the final. His journey included a four-set victory over 10-time champion Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals.

Sinner’s stellar 2024 season also featured:

• Eight titles, including the US Open and ATP Finals
• Three Masters 1000 crowns
• Reaching World No. 1 in June 2024

Now, as the top seed, Sinner heads into the 2025 Australian Open without a warm-up event, mirroring his approach last season.

Experts Back Sinner’s Title Defence

On The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast, Stubbs confidently labelled Sinner as the leading contender:

“Jannik Sinner, overwhelming favourite at the Australian Open,” Stubbs stated.

Petkovic echoed Stubbs’ sentiments, highlighting Sinner’s physical and mental improvements:

“The Australian Open is made for him, in terms of surface and ball. He’s physically fit now, and even the temperature doesn’t seem to affect him.”

Rennae Stubbs Criticises ‘Weak’ Players

Addressing the heat in Melbourne, Stubbs recounted her own experiences with extreme temperatures, contrasting them with modern players’ reactions:

“If it’s that hot, they just close the roof. These guys are pussies, okay. Let’s face it, these players are weak.”

Stubbs reflected on enduring grueling matches in scorching conditions without the option to halt play:

“I remember walking out of the locker room into 42-degree heat (110°F for Americans). I literally prayed, ‘Dear God, please help me today.’ There was no stopping; you dealt with it.”

Stubbs’ fiery comments underscore a significant generational shift in how tennis professionals cope with demanding conditions.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 Australian Open approaches, all eyes are on Jannik Sinner as he aims to solidify his dominance and secure a third Grand Slam title.