Sinner, on Nadal’s retirement: “It is tough news for the world of sports”

Jannik Sinner is already the first semifinalist of the ATP Shanghai after defeating Daniil Medvedev in straight sets. His victory over the Russian also came moments before Rafa Nadal announced his retirement from professional tennis at the Davis Cup. In a press conference, the world number 1 talked about everything he has learned from the Spaniard and also about the pressure of the ‘Big 3’. Hence, his probable next opponent in the semis could likely be Carlos Alcaraz. Are you looking forward to that matchup?

– His match with Medvedev

“It was a great match for my team. We get to know each other a little better every time we face off. Today, I felt I had some shoulder issues, and everyone could see it, so he didn’t play at his best level. These things can happen.”

– Alcaraz in the semis?

“Once again, it’s a great opportunity. I’m glad to be able to play in these crucial stages. Playing against Carlos is never easy, but I always try to put myself in the best position, then we’ll see what I can achieve. It will undoubtedly be a very tough match, but that’s exactly what I’m looking for as a player. We’ll see afterward; Carlos still has to win tonight, you never know in tennis. Of course, he is the favorite, but anything can happen on the court, we’ll see.”

– Nadal’s retirement

“It’s tough news for the sports world, not just tennis. What I can say is that I was very fortunate to also know him on a personal level; he’s an amazing person. Obviously, as a player, we’ve seen how good he has been, the lessons he has taught us young players, how to behave on the court, how to handle difficult situations. He has given us many emotions watching him play. Also, maintaining humility at the same time, not changing with success, selecting the right people around him, and having a good family. There are many good things he has given us all. It’s tough news, but on the other hand, everything has a beginning and an end. Only he knows how he feels.”

– Do you feel the pressure from the ‘Big 3’?

“What they have accomplished in recent years has been incredible. There isn’t much to say about pressure; it will always be there. But from my side, I focus on myself, on what I have to do on the court, on what I need to improve, and hopefully, that will make me a better and more consistent player. They have been very consistent for many years. They have not just been consistent in one or two seasons but have done it for 15 years. It’s amazing what they have achieved. There are many things we can learn from them, but we can’t compare ourselves to them; it’s impossible, especially at this moment. I think we have all been very lucky to watch the ‘Big 3’ play. And I consider myself very fortunate to be able to know them also as people and learn from them.”

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sinner, on Nadal’s withdrawal: “It is hard news for the world of sport”