Jannik Sinner Can Emulate Novak Djokovic, Claims Former ATP Star

Jannik Sinner recently emerged as the winner of the European Open 2021. The Italian rising star defeated Diego Schwartzman in straight sets in the finals to lift his maiden title in Antwerp. The final scoreline of the match was 6-2, 6-2. Interestingly, even Novak Djokovic is yet to win the European Open title in his career.

Jannik Sinner is currently playing at the Vienna Open 2021. He has reached the quarter-finals of the tournament and thus, fans are backing him even in Vienna. His impressive form in 2021 has caused a former Italian great to compare Sinner to World No. 1, Novak Djokovic.

Italian tennis great feels Sinner has the ability to imitate Novak Djokovic’s career

In a recent interview, Italian tennis great and former World No.12, Paolo Bertolucci, highlighted that even though it’s not easy, Sinner can emulate the career of Novak Djokovic. He also mentioned that the youngster wants to achieve great heights in his career.

Sep 10, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia reacts after winning a break point against Alexander Zverev of Germany (not pictured) in the fifth set on day twelve of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

“Maybe, but let’s take it easy: Nole is the best. But here are the basics and Jannik is predestined: he insists on work, and he likes it, he does it seriously, he never takes a step back, he is a sponge and wants to reach the as high as possible,” said Bertolucci in the interview. (Translated via Google Translate)

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“Takes defeat even in the right direction”- Bertolucci on Sinner

In the same interview, Bertolucci emphasized that Sinner learns from his mistakes. He has really high expectations from the rising star and stated that it would be appropriate to give him some time before making any sweeping comparisons.

Aug 8, 2021; Washington, DC, USA; Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates during the singles finals match against Mackenzie McDonald of the United States (not pictured) at Citi Open at Rock Creek Park Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Taetsch-USA TODAY Sports

“Serious, poised, he looks good on the pitch and in the spotlight, he doesn’t get excited or beat down. He takes defeat even in the right direction and learns from it without grumbling. So now let’s sit and sit comfortably and wait, it will give us great satisfaction,” added the 60-year-old.

Jannik Sinner will face Casper Ruud in the quarters of the Vienna Open 2021. Will he be able to conquer Vienna this year?

Also Read: WATCH: Novak Djokovic Makes Young Fans Happy at Serena Williams’ Coach’s Tennis Academy

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