Jannik Sinner shares what he said to Rafael Jodar after their match in Madrid
· Yahoo Sports
Jannik Sinner is only 24, but he’s already achieved more than most players dream of in a lifetime.
Even more impressive is the fact that he keeps getting better. The world number one has a bright future ahead and looks set to share the top of the sport with Carlos Alcaraz for years to come.
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At some point, though, someone new will have to break through.
“He was pushing me very hard and I like these kinds of matches because you always have to find something different. It’s never going only in one way,” Sinner said after his victory over Jodar at Roland-Garros. “I tried to mix up a little bit the game plan today. Sometimes it worked, sometimes not.”
Jannik Sinner shares advice for Rafael Jodar following their Madrid Open quarter-final
Photo by Tnani Badreddine/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty ImagesSpeaking at his post-match press conference, Sinner explained what he said to Jodar: “I told him that I wish him the best for the season, to keep working, to keep improving, and that’s all.”
The Italian also took a moment to share some advice with the rising star: “My advice is always to avoid pressure as much as possible. I know there will always be many words on and off the court, but at the end of the day, the player must move forward.
“What he is doing is incredible; I wish him the best, but at the same time you shouldn’t push too hard because sometimes it gets into your head and it’s very difficult to get rid of.
“He’s a good guy, has a good family behind him, his father is very humble, he has a good bubble that is very beneficial for him.
“I think he will have incredible results in the future. There will always be other younger players in a couple of years as usual but he has everything he needs.”
Sinner had high praise for Jodar immediately after their match, and with more time to reflect on their Madrid Open encounter, his respect for his opponent seemed only to grow.
Why Sinner’s words of encouragement could come back to haunt him
Just as Novak Djokovic may wish he hadn’t given early advice to Sinner and his coach Darren Cahill, the four-time Grand Slam winner could find himself feeling the same about his comments towards Jodar.
Jodar didn’t look out of place, either. He pushed Sinner hard, creating seven break points during the match and taking the second set all the way to a tiebreak.
It may not happen overnight, but Jodar looks ready to challenge the current dominance on tour. Considering how quickly he’s already climbed up the rankings, that time might be closer than many realise.
Sinner’s advice — and this match itself — should give Jodar plenty of motivation. He now has a clear picture of what it takes at this level and will surely return stronger for it.
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