Introduction: Wilander on Sinner’s Mental Fortitude

Former World No. 1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander recently hailed Jannik Sinner as a “big-time, big-match” player. Wilander likened Sinner’s clutch performance under pressure to that of Novak Djokovic, noting that Sinner excels in high-stakes moments. This praise comes as the Italian prepares to compete in the 2024 ATP Finals.

Sinner’s Rise to World No. 1

Sinner ascended to World No. 1 for the first time in June, after amassing an impressive 4,000-point lead in the ATP Rankings. At just 23, he has had a phenomenal 2024 season, claiming:

• Two Grand Slam titles
• Three Masters 1000 titles
• Two ATP 500 titles

In total, Sinner has won seven titles from the eight finals he reached this season. Stretching back to last year, he’s triumphed in 10 of his last 12 finals, establishing himself as a consistent force.

Consistency and Pressure: Sinner’s Key Strengths

Wilander commended Sinner’s ability to maintain a high level of play throughout tournaments, especially when the pressure is high. Reflecting on Sinner’s 2024 season, he noted:

“Sinner is a big-time, big-match player. He shows up, plays the same way, and even performs better under pressure. Unlike Alcaraz, Sinner has no dips in his tennis throughout an entire tournament.”

Physical Concerns: Sinner’s Challenge in Turin

However, Wilander expressed some concern over Sinner’s ability to handle the physical demands of top-tier tennis, particularly given his history with injuries. The Swede cautioned:

“He’s had a lot of injuries, and he’s putting on more muscle to get stronger. But the question is whether his body can handle it. If you add significant muscle, can your joints and bones manage the extra load?”

Despite these concerns, Wilander sees Sinner as the favorite for the ATP Finals title but questions whether his body can endure another intense week against the world’s best.

READ MORE:

Sinner Thrills Turin Crowd With Commanding Opening Win at ATP Finals

Conclusion

With his recent accolades and Wilander’s high praise, Sinner enters the ATP Finals as a top contender. As he faces Alex de Minaur in his opening match, the question remains: Can Sinner sustain his remarkable form and claim his first ATP Finals crown?