Sinner: "There are many positive things to draw from today"

Mónica Barberán Munera | 28 Aug 2024 | 00.51

Jannik Sinner at the US Open 2024. Photo: Getty

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Jannik Sinner had a tough debut at the US Open following the recent events of his doping case and subsequent innocence. The Italian had to deal with the pressure and his mindset to turn his first match in New York around. Nevertheless, the world number 1 did not disappoint, leaving Arthur Ashe with a win under his belt to clear his mind and focus on what matters most: tennis. Thus, in the press conference, Sinner spoke about what happened during that low of the first set against Mackenzie McDonald, and what it has been like to play again after the recent turmoil.

- What happened in the first set?

"I felt that Mackenzie was playing great tennis, not missing any shots. I struggled a bit to find a way to play. We prepared in a certain way, and he read my game quite well, which is normal. The early rounds are never easy, especially at Grand Slams. I was a set and a break down, so breaking in the second set gave me a bit of confidence. And after raising my level, he dropped his a bit."

- His first match after the news about his case

"I think the fans' response has been great, even when the news first came out. There was a lot of support in practice sessions, something that made me very happy. It's still not easy; you have to take it day by day. I'm very happy to be in the position I'm in, but yes, I have to take it step by step. Tomorrow I have a day off; it will be a training day, and I hope to be ready and start the next match very positively. We'll see if I can do it or not, it will be interesting to see."

- "Many positive things to take away today"

"I am curious to see how the fans have reacted, but it has been very positive. I was very pleased with the support; playing against an American is a bit different. I am satisfied with how I handled the situation; it hasn't been easy. I think there are many positive things to take from today."

- On his teammates' reactions

"There have been some reactions, yes. I cannot control what they think or say. That's how it's been, and I've already spoken about it, right? I can't control the players' reactions, and if I have something to say to someone, I say it personally because that's the kind of person I am. Overall, it hasn't been bad, so I'm happy with that."

- The Olympic Games were his priority

"At the beginning of the year, I said the Olympic Games were one of the main goals, if not the biggest one. I missed the first one. So, the second one would have been very special playing in Paris, in Europe, very close to my home. If I had had the chance to play, not being sick and able to compete, I would have been the happiest. Representing Italy is always a great privilege and an honor for me. It wasn't this time, hopefully next time in 4 years. There's still a long way to go, but I hope it will be very special."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sinner: "Hay muchas cosas positivas que extraer en el día de hoy"