"I'm fine. We're doing everything we can to be back on the pitch as soon as possible. I have a very strong team with many experts to come back stronger. I am and we are following all the protocols they're giving us, and the goal is to return as soon as possible."

This was Jannik Sinner's comment during the "Be Like Sinner" event at the Allianz Tower in Milan, referring to the knee problem that has kept him out since July, after his triumph at Wimbledon.

The goal is the Australian Open for the South Tyrolean, who announced his return for December 27th for the Six King Slam exhibition tournament. He's not 100% certain yet, given that Jannik isn't training yet: "I play on the simulator, then I go to the gym, and then I go on the simulator again. This is the first time I've lost control; it's a strange feeling, I don't like it, but at least I have time to spend with my parents and friends. Now I'm appreciating what I've managed to do. Before, it all seemed natural, traveling the world and winning tournaments. The desire to win is even higher, lifting trophies will be even more wonderful. I'll enjoy it a little more."

Sinner is itching to get back to playing, but he can't rush things: the goal isn't just to get back to playing, but to do so in the best possible condition to preserve the longevity of his career. That's the top priority. "I have to take care of my body. I want to play for another 10-15 years."

The desire to return is strong, but the trust in the staff is complete ("They're the best in the world") and caution is advised above all else. "I hope to play a few tournaments before Australia, but I have to follow the protocols to avoid more serious problems." The mood remains good on the Allianz Tower stage, the smiles the same as always. "It's not the worst moment of my career; it's still a long one."

There's no shortage of jokes, especially with Darren Cahill, his "second father," whom he'll no longer see in his corner. "He's still in my contacts, I can always call him," Sinner assures him. "Let's see," the Australian winks as Jannik asks him not to block him on his phone.

The handover to Magnus Norman is all about continuity, without revolutions. "Magnus is similar to Darren," Sinner admits. "He accepts the way we're already working; we won't change our methods. It's important not to overturn everything, but to add something new every year. I'll really miss the personal aspect with Darren, but it's a normal breakup, as if nothing had happened."

It's a constant exchange of caresses between the two. "When I met him," Cahill recalls, "I would have signed if I saw what we've achieved. There are no regrets. He won five Slams, was world number one, won every Masters 1000, and won the Davis Cup. It's been an incredible journey, and the difficult moments have made us stronger. I'm very proud of him."

Sinner is generous with compliments: "Cobolli deserved the ATP Finals. We needed an Italian, and Vavassori and Bolelli are also there." Zverev also "deserved" the number one spot. And on Kimi Antonelli, Formula 1 world champion: "It's incredible to do it at 20 with such ease, it's truly amazing. Only a phenomenon learns that quickly."

(Unioneonline)

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