Sinner reveals true colors in changing into World No.1 as Djokovic exits French Open
Jannik Sinner has gracefully accepted his ascent to world No.1 on Monday after Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal from the French Open due to injury, with the Italian star refusing to overshadow the 24-time Grand Slam champ’s misfortune.
The star, 22, was locked in a head-to-head battle for the top ranking at Roland Garros with Djokovic, but the Serbian ace’s exit from the competition following a torn medial meniscus confirmed Sinner’s rise to the pinnacle of men’s tennis.
Despite his own success, Sinner showed true sportsmanship by immediately wishing Djokovic a swift recovery upon hearing the news, demonstrating his respect for the tennis legend.
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While he was busy claiming victory on the court, Djokovic’s unfortunate withdrawal guaranteed that Sinner would make history as the first Italian to hold the ATP No.1 spot come next Monday, reports the Express.
During his post-match interview with Fabrice Santoro, the Australian Open champion was notified about his new status as the world’s leading player. However, Sinner chose not to revel in his achievement out of consideration for Djokovic’s condition.
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“What can I say? First of all it’s every player’s dream to become No. 1 in the world,” Sinner humbly remarked, before expressing his concern for Djokovic: “In the other way, seeing Novak retiring here, I think it’s for everyone disappointing so I wish him a speedy recovery.”
The second seed has also tried to focus on the tournament instead of the battle for the No.1 spot. And his approach hasn’t changed after securing the ranking. He continued: “I tried to not think so much about this because this is a tournament where I used to struggle a lot, especially the last two years.
“So I’m happy to be in the semi-finals, I’m gonna enjoy and I will try to play my best tennis as I can.” Sinner went on to thank his team and his supporters after his milestone achievement, but he quickly turned the attention back to the semi-final.
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“Thanks to my team that they make all this process possible because without them it’s impossible. And also without you guys it’s a huge – it’s a special moment for me and I’m very happy to share this with you guys, all the guys who are watching at home, especially from Italy.”
There were already doubts over the future of Djokovic’s French Open title defence when he injured his knee on Monday night. The reigning champion in Paris later confessed that he considered retiring from the match and still didn’t know whether he’d be ready for his next match.
Following additional medical examinations on Tuesday, the tournament confirmed his withdrawal. “Due to a torn medial meniscus in his right knee (discovered during an MRI scan performed today).
“Novak Djokovic, who was scheduled to face Casper Ruud in tomorrow’s quarterfinals, has been forced to withdraw from the Roland-Garros tournament.”
