Jannik Sinner has officially returned to the tennis scene, landing in Rome on May 4, 2025, after a three-month suspension due to the Clostebol case. The world number one arrived at Ciampino airport at 2 PM via a private jet from Nice, showcasing a confident stride and a smile that indicated his excitement to be back.
After a brief stay in a luxury hotel with a stunning view of the Cupolone, Sinner is set to participate in a series of events that mark his comeback at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia. His day kicks off with the draw for the tournament at the iconic Fontana di Trevi at noon, where he will be the top seed.
Following the draw, Sinner will hold a media day at 4 PM, marking his first public appearance since the suspension. The tournament has created a special atmosphere for him, ensuring he has the spotlight he deserves. "The rivals fear him, the world awaits him, Rome embraces him," is the slogan that captures the anticipation surrounding Sinner's return.
Later in the evening, Sinner will join his fellow Italian players to celebrate their recent successes in the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup at 6 PM. This celebration is not just a formality; it symbolizes a collective spirit that has been strengthened through their achievements.
As the day progresses, Sinner will take to the court for his first training session at the Foro Italico from 7 PM to 9 PM, where he will practice alongside Czech player Jiri Lehecka. The session is expected to draw significant attention, with around 10,500 fans eager to witness the return of their champion.
After being sidelined since his victory over Sascha Zverev in the Australian Open final on January 26, 2025, Sinner has been training vigorously. Since April 13, when he was cleared to train without restrictions, he has focused on regaining his competitive edge. His training partners have included Jack Draper and Lorenzo Sonego, both of whom have helped him prepare for the rigors of the ATP tour.
In a recent interview, Sinner reflected on his experience during the suspension, stating, "I learned the importance of surrounding myself with trustworthy people." This newfound maturity is evident as he prepares to make his mark once again on the ATP circuit.
In the tournament draw, Sinner is set to face the winner of the match between rising star Federico Cinà and Argentine Mariano Navone in the second round. This matchup is highly anticipated, as it marks Sinner's return to competitive play after an extended absence.
Meanwhile, fellow Italian player Lorenzo Musetti has also made headlines by becoming the 185th player to enter the ATP Top 10 since the rankings began in 1973, now holding the number 9 spot. Musetti's rise comes on the heels of his impressive performance in Madrid, where he secured his place among the elite.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Sinner, who has not won a match on the clay courts of the Foro Italico since May 13, 2023, when he defeated Alexander Shevchenko. The last Italian to claim victory in Rome was the legendary Adriano Panatta in 1976, a long wait that has fans hoping Sinner can end the drought.
On the global stage, the tennis community is buzzing with excitement as Sinner's return could potentially set the stage for a thrilling showdown with Carlos Alcaraz, should both players advance to the final. The anticipation is palpable as the tournament promises to deliver high-stakes matches and unforgettable moments.
The atmosphere at the Foro Italico is electric, with fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to support Sinner as he embarks on this new chapter in his career. The journey back to the top is never easy, but with determination and support, Sinner is poised to reclaim his position as one of the sport's leading figures.
As the tournament progresses, Sinner's path will be closely monitored, with many wondering how many games it will take for him to regain his rhythm. Tennis analyst Paolo Bertolucci has suggested that simulated match experiences during training could help Sinner acclimate to the competitive environment once again.
With the excitement building, Sinner's return is not just about tennis; it's a story of resilience and determination. The young athlete is ready to write a new chapter in his career, and the world will be watching closely. Will he rise to the occasion and make history at the Internazionali BNL d'Italia? Only time will tell.
