Sinner doesn't trust Mochizuki: "He is very dangerous on grass"

Jannik Sinner continues to make steady progress in Wimbledon 2026. The world number one convincingly defeated Jenson Brooksby and appeared at the press conference visibly satisfied with his performance. Additionally, he talked about what he expects from his next opponent, the tournament's big surprise, Shintaro Mochizuki.

After the match, the Italian acknowledged that he is still evolving within the tournament, analyzed the virtues of his upcoming opponent, Shintaro Mochizuki, and explained why he believes the Japanese could pose a very uncomfortable challenge despite being the clear favorite. Always humble and cautious, Jannik Sinner continues to seek his best form at this Wimbledon 2026.

Jannik Sinner analyzes his progression at Wimbledon and the challenge posed by Shintaro Mochizuki

Sinner reveals what worries him about his match with Mochizuki

The Italian was immediately asked about his upcoming opponent, one of the great revelations of the tournament after eliminating Rafael Jódar, and made it clear that he does not intend to underestimate the Japanese. "I have watched some of his matches. He is a very good player, especially on grass. His ball stays very low, which helps him a lot on this surface. Additionally, he seems to be a very, very aggressive player.

We have never trained together or faced each other before, so we will see what happens. The most important thing for me is still to focus on my side of the court. He has achieved great victories to get here. Today he also had a very tough opponent and managed to come through. He is a very dangerous player, and I will try to prepare myself as best as possible."

The number one feels that every match brings him closer to his best version

After some doubts in the early rounds, Sinner stated that the match against Brooksby represents a step forward in his adaptation to grass. "It was a much better match on my part. I am very happy to have secured the victory because today I faced a really tough opponent.

My main goal was to feel better than in the previous matches, and I think I achieved that. I particularly liked how I finished the match. In the last game, I was much more determined, and I hope that gives me confidence to start the next match positively. I am trying to move better; the rest also worked better today, and overall, I think it has been a small step forward. Nevertheless, I feel that I still have room to continue growing, and I hope to achieve that in the next round."

Jannik explains the importance of the first week at Grand Slams

Sinner also reflected on how he approaches the early rounds of a Grand Slam and the importance of building sensations before reaching the decisive phase. "Every year is different. The only thing I am sure of is that a tournament is not won during the first week, but you can lose it.

The fact that I am still here is always a good sign. What we try to do is take small steps forward in each match. Additionally, this year I had not played any previous tournaments on grass, so the early matches are always tough. I am gradually trying to find the right rhythm within the tournament. Now we will see how the next match starts, and from there, we can draw more conclusions."

Sinner and how to seek connection with the audience

"You can perceive when a player tries to connect with the audience. Sometimes you don't even need to look because the noise already tells you what's happening. I think it's nice for fans when there is that connection. Each player manages those moments differently. I am not someone who puts on a big show on the court, but with experience, you also learn that, at certain times, it can be useful. Everyone has their own personality, and I think that is also positive."

Jannik Sinner will now face unprecedented round of 16 against Shintaro Mochizuki with the feeling that his tennis continues to improve as Wimbledon progresses. The Italian acknowledges that he has not yet reached his best level, but he believes that each match brings him closer to the form he will need to contend for the title at the All England Club.