No one understands a child better than their parents. Ask Jannik Sinner, who credits his parents as the biggest driving force behind his success. On an emotional note, Sinner reflected on their sacrifice – as he reached one of the most prestigious feats in his career. Despite a season full of luster, Sinner remained an obedient son highlighting why behind every successful athlete remains supportive parents who dream with their children.

The Italian reached the ATP number one position for the first time on June 10th this year and solidified his spot in the sport after winning the 2024 Shanghai Masters semifinals. The Italian player went on to win two Grand Slams this season, the Australian Open and the US Open, and added five more titles to his collection in 2024. This Monday he was awarded the Year-End No. 1 trophy by ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi. The trophy ceremony was also graced by former player and German coach Boris Becker while Sinner’s parents Hanspeter and Siglinde Sinner proudly cheered for their son from the Analpi Arena.

The Tennis Letter’s official X profile shared an emotional moment from the event where Sinner spoke about the sacrifices his parents made to support him throughout his career. The video showcased Sinner’s mother shedding tears of happiness while the Italian’s father looked on at her with a proud smile capturing the depth of their special moment.

“I just heard that my mum was crying which is something very cute! Only they know from my early stages when I was around 13 how many sacrifices we made as a family. We would have never thought that we’d have this (trophy) at home at some point. You know, these are really only dreams and then slowly you try to improve as a player and as a person and now I’m standing here with one of the, if not maybe the, most special trophy I have. This is amazing because this is an achievement over 52 weeks, so I’m very happy,” he said. Sinner’s statement highlighted his parents’ pivotal role in his success. However, this is not the first time he paid tribute to them.

When Sinner won the 2024 Australian Open title, he dropped an emotional message for his parents. Acknowledging how hard it must have been for them to leave their 14-year-old son abroad to chase his dreams, the Italian thanked his parents for shaping his calm personality. His statements about his parents always reflect their great equation.

Jannik Sinner wished everyone could have supportive parents like him

Sinner’s admiration for his parents is beautifully expressed in his wish that everyone could have parents as supportive as his. He said, “I wish that everyone could have my parents because they always let me choose whatever I wanted to, Even when I was younger, I also [played] some other sports and they never put pressure on [me] … I wish that this freedom is possible for as many young kids as possible. Thank you so much [to] my parents.” Sinner’s words reflect the profound influence of his parents’  approach on his development. By allowing him freedom that transformed him into a mature and responsible individual, they empowered the player to grow at his pace. Sinner believes, this probably played a crucial role in installing key elements to his personality and helping him to end the season as the ATP number one.

Further reflecting on his parents’ impact, Sinner added, “They always gave me, they never put pressure on myself, which for me is maybe the key why I’m here today. I’m a very relaxed man, who just enjoys to play tennis. I’m 22 years old, so I also enjoy to do normal stuff. And that’s it, they are the perfect parents. Obviously, I know only them but they are awesome.”  His words spoke volumes of the supportive environment his parents offered.

As Jannik Sinner wrapped up the season as ATP number one, it is proven that his success is not just a result of his hard work but a supportive nurturing system. While there wasn’t any doubt about his potential, his genuine gratitude and humble personality brought him fans worldwide. Standing at the top of the ATP ranking, Sinner reminds us of the importance of a family that not only helps in an athlete’s career but also shapes his character.