Jannik Sinner, the Wimbledon title defender, has adapted his training routine following a health scare at the French Open, where he experienced illness and dizziness during a second-round match. Contrary to easing his regimen, Sinner has opted for more intense and prolonged training sessions, both in the gym and on the court.
Sinner disclosed these changes during a press conference at Wimbledon, speaking in both English and Italian. He is set to face Miomir Kecmanovic in the tournament opener on Centre Court, with the temperature forecasted to reach 25°C (77°F). With Carlos Alcaraz out due to a wrist injury, Sinner stands as a strong contender for the grass-court event.
After his unexpected exit at Roland Garros, Sinner took a brief break and underwent medical tests to assess his health. “All tests were really good,” he confirmed, indicating no underlying health issues.
Previously, Sinner has battled with heat-related challenges, including cramps. He emphasized the necessity of training under hotter conditions, acknowledging the rising temperatures globally. “We need to practice in hotter conditions,” he stated, recognizing the importance of acclimatization as climates grow warmer.
During the French Open, Sinner was close to winning his match in straight sets but succumbed to dizziness during a heatwave, resulting in a defeat by Juan Manuel Cerundolo with scores of 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1.
Sinner acknowledged that there are no quick solutions to these challenges but expressed satisfaction with his recent training efforts. “We are happy at the moment with what we are doing. The result we’re not going to see here. It’s a long process,” he remarked, noting the extensive work put in over the past weeks.
Skipping Pre-Wimbledon Tournaments
Sinner decided against participating in warmup tournaments before Wimbledon, a strategic choice he had planned. “If you play a tournament before here, maybe it’s not going the way you would like to, you come here with some doubts,” he explained. Instead, he opted to focus solely on Wimbledon, recalling how he performed well last year despite an early exit in Halle.
Privileges of a Champion
With his Wimbledon triumph, Sinner has earned membership at the prestigious All England Club. “It’s a great honor for me. As I’ve always said, it’s the best tournament we have, the most prestigious, and so having this thing for my whole life is very, very nice,” he said. At just 24 years old, Sinner noted that the significance of this honor might become more apparent after his playing career concludes.
For more information on tennis, visit the AP tennis hub.
