Jannik Sinner and facial expressions? Never thought the tennis world would be privy to hearing those two words in one line. Well, believe it or not, it’s true. The Italian superstar does have an intriguing side to him. Having stormed the sport with his laudable performances, his celebrations, however, never saw the light of day. Well, that has changed now. To much excitement, the World No. 1 has reserved the best of his cheers for Team Italy during their Davis Cup Group Stage Finals tie against the Netherlands on Sunday.

The Italian ‘force to be reckoned with’ and the recently crowned US Open champion was one of the many familiar faces in the stands, spectating his nation in action at the group event. Rooting for his countryman Matteo Berrettini, while he fronted fans with impressive showdowns, revealed an unknown side to Sinner. Notably, during Berrettini’s encounter with Carlos Alcaraz‘s slayer at the US Open, Botic van de Zandschulp, the 2-time Grand Slam champion surprised the tennis community with a string of hilarious reactions.

In a post uploaded on Reddit, Sinner was witnessed showcasing somewhat animated gestures while cheering on compatriot Berrettini. While that made sense, considering the 28-year-old outfoxed de Zandschulp after sustaining a one-set deficit, Sinner’s reactions to his homeboy were a first. As the former World No. 6 proceeded to register a jaw-dropping comeback, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, Sinner was prompted to boost his countryman’s morale. The World No. 1 actively fulfilled his obligations as a supportive teammate and cheered on Berrettini with a string of unfamiliar facial expressions, something he generally refrains from when clashing on the court. Following Berrettini’s triumph, the duo adorably hugged and exchanged a few words.

For those unaware, Berrettini and Sinner scripted history by becoming the only two Italian players to reach the quarterfinal or better at all four Grand Slam events. While all that is a job well done, let’s dive into Italy’s current standing at the Davis Cup.

Jannik Sinner’s Team Italy advances to final 8 in Davis Cup, Malaga

It is safe to say that Italy is making some rounds at the Davis Cup. That shouldn’t come as a surprise, since they’re the defending champions at the group event. They lifted the title for the first time in 47 years last November. As of now, Italy has won all three of their ties this week, boasting 2-1 victories against Brazil and Belgium.

Jannik Sinner, who led his nation to glory on the international stage last year, chose not to play in Bologna this week. After a tiring two-week session at the US Open, wherein he became the first Italian male to capture the Flushing Meadows crown, the World No. 1 decided to rest and recover ahead of his upcoming adventure at the China Open in Beijing, where he is slated to defend his title.

In summary, Italy will face tough competition in the Davis Cup Finals Knock-Out Stage in November. With Spain, led by Carlos Alcaraz, having qualified in first place in Group B, chances are that the nations clash and present the tennis world with thrilling showdowns.