Jannik Sinner targets return in Australia but says he won’t rush recovery

Sinner hasn't played since Wimbledon

Jannik Sinner is aiming to return to competition in Australia and hopes to play a couple of tournaments beforehand, he told a press conference in Milan on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old said his team had revised its recovery plan after an earlier target proved out of reach. He is working towards a return in Australia, with the timing dependent on his progress and the advice of his doctors.

“The goal is to be in Australia. Hopefully, I can play a couple of tournaments beforehand as well. But I have to respect the timelines and the protocols, because if we rush things, something more serious could happen. I'm working towards that goal every single day.”

Sinner taking the long view

Sinner spoke about what he misses most while away from competition and why he is putting his long-term career first.

“I miss competing, walking onto the court and giving 100%. I miss doing what I love, which is playing tennis. Right now, it's very important for me to take care of my body because I want to play for another 10 or 15 years. I'm 25, and I want to keep stepping onto the court and giving my very best.”

He said his team changed its approach once it became clear that the original goal was unrealistic.

“At first, we had a goal in mind that turned out to be impossible, so we decided to take a different path. I'm a tennis player, not a doctor, so my only option is to trust the people around me. We're doing everything we can to protect my long-term career and get me back as soon as possible.”

Sinner said the pressure to return was familiar, but his priority was following the programme his medical team had set out.

“I have the best doctors around me, and I'm trusting the programme they've given me. I have to accept it. The pressure is always there, and it would be strange if it weren't, but right now it's the least of my worries.”