Jannik Sinner will start working with Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach as the Italian continues to look for ways to improve despite being the World No. 1.
Sinner is undoubtedly one of the improved players in the world this season. He went from coming close at the biggest tournaments to winning two Grand Slam titles and becoming the top-ranked player in the world.
He defeated Taylor Fritz in a one-sided final at the US Open to secure his second major title. Sinner only dropped two sets during his run to glory in New York, wowing the fans with his level.
The Italian's success was particularly impressive after the anxiety he undoubtedly suffered due to the news of his positive tests for the banned substance clostebol becoming public before the US Open began, even though he was cleared of wrongdoing. Still, as a result, he fired his former fitness coach, and as a result, he had to look for a replacement.
Toni Nadal praised Sinner's temperament and mental strength after he triumphed at Flushing Meadows despite the doping saga and his reaction to it, showing that he is mature beyond his years.
Although Sinner has proven he is an incredible player, he is still prone to physical issues. There have been occasions this season when he has cramped during long matches or in hot and humid conditions.
Improving in that area could keep Sinner at the top of the game for several years. He has shown how mentally and technically strong he is. If the 23-year-old becomes physically more robust, he could be a scarily complete player.
Sinner has taken steps to try to make that a reality by hiring Novak Djokovic's former fitness coach, Marco Panichi. There had been rumors about the move in recent days, but Panichi's addition to Sinner's team is now official.
Panichi worked with Djokovic from 2019 until April 2024. He played a vital role in the Serbian's remarkable longevity, although Panichi has also acknowledged that Djokovic is a genetic phenomenon.
The Italian coach has worked with numerous players during his long career. These include Angelique Kerber, Daniela Hantuchova, Fabio Fognini, Philipp Kohlschreiber, Li Na, Simone Bolelli, and Francesca Schiavone.
His work with those players is just a portion of his thirty years of experience in tennis. Panichi also had a career in athletics before his work in tennis, twice becoming the Italian long jump champion.
Djokovic had a very successful time with Panichi, and his decision to part ways with him was surprising. The 24-time Grand Slam champion also stopped working with Goran Ivanisevic after a slow start to 2024.
Although success is never guaranteed, Sinner's move seems wise. Panichi has a long track record of excellence working with players, and he has received praise from many of the ATP and WTA players who had him on their teams.
Sinner hopes to become the year-end world No. 1 for the first time in his career after the ATP Finals in November. The two-time Grand Slam champion has a great chance because of his significant lead at the top, although he does have a substantial number of points left to defend.