Jannik Sinner recently won the US Open, and while some might think he pulled back a bit and relaxed, the Italian is ready to go ahead of the Asian swing, totally shutting down any notion of lacking motivation.
While some people might celebrate a huge achievement, pull back, and enjoy the moment, others can be hugely motivated to keep going. That's particularly present in competitive sports, where some players overachieve compared to others.
It might not be a talent issue but more so a work ethic issue, as some of the best, historically speaking, have been tremendously competitive and extremely motivated. Some others might have had the talent edge but lacked that drive, and it didn't work out as some thought it would.
When it comes to Sinner, it's clear to which side he belongs. He's not one to simply rest on his laurels but wants to keep going, which is why he shut down talk about him possibly being content after the US Open triumph.
Whatever the results, Sinner doesn't change his approach, and his approach is to keep working hard so he can improve as a player, as he detailed ahead of the 2024 China Open, an ATP Masters 1000 tournament, where he will compete as the top seed.
"No. I think I always try to improve. Doesn't really matter the result I have, what I managed to achieve, I always try to understand myself and what I have to improve off the court and on the court, all these things. Of course, I'm excited to be back and play tournaments because this is what I practice for."
Sinner has had a tremendous 2024 campaign, likely better than anybody would have expected. He won the Australian Open, which set the tone for the season early. He also recently won the US Open, bringing his Grand Slam total to two, and even after that, he understands that there are areas to be improved in his game.
"Even in the practice sessions, I always try to understand what's working and what's not working. Obviously we found out that we have some areas where I have to improve. It's all part of the process what I have. I think this is the most exciting part."
The Italian has also been world number one since early summer and Roland Garros, so it’s been a fabulous year for him. He was amazing in this final part of the season last year, and he certainly won’t be looking to go backwards in that sense this year.
He certainly has some clear goals, with the ATP Finals being a huge one, having the competition in his home country. He narrowly missed out on the trophy last year, losing to Novak Djokovic in the final.
He has also signed up for the Davis Cup with Italy, and they’re the defending champions, so there is plenty of tennis coming up for Sinner, who will be among the favorites for each of the events he plays.