Jannik Sinner expresses her belief that talent is acquired and a work ethic is more important than having slightly better skills.
The Italian also revealed that knowing he had given his 100 per cent after his career was over was more significant than winning the tournament.
The 20-year-old finishes the 2021 season ranked 10th in the world, having briefly held his career-highest ranking of 9th in the world last November.
READ ALSO : Bianca Andreescu Opens Up About A Difficult Phase Of Her Career
The Italian this season also claimed four titles and was runner-up in the Miami Open (losing to Hubert Hurkacz). He also debuted in the season-ending ATP Finals as a substitute after compatriot Matteo Berrettini withdrew with an abdominal muscle injury.
In an interview with Intesa Sanpaolo, the champion in Washington this season expressed his view on hard work and talent that go hand in hand.
“Talent doesn’t exist for me, someone has to get it. You could have a little better talent, but if you work hard you can go higher. Those who work hard are those who have talent,” said Jannik Sinner.
The Italian also revealed how he faced doubts and saw defeat as an opportunity to improve himself.
“I think in all respects there is doubt, not only in tennis. There are times when you ask yourself, why did you miss that shot? But I know that the next day you have another opportunity to develop yourself. And I wake up with that mentality, so I don’t spend too much energy losing, because it’s a waste of energy.”
The world number 10 discussed how all aspects relate to match performance and emphasized that mentality is vital to success.
“I realized that you can train every aspect, physically, technically and most importantly mentally,” said Sinner.
“In tennis you have to be very strong mentally in every moment of the game. And in the end it makes you win good games, even if you play bad games.”
