Roger Federer inspired many players when he was a star of the sport. An entire generation grew up watching and admiring him, hoping to be at the same stage as him one day. Jannik Sinner is one such player, and he is an outspoken fan of the 20-time Grand Slam champion. The Italian youngster has met him many times, for tennis and reasons apart from tennis. However, even Sinner couldn’t help but feel regret over one missed opportunity.
The Italian player has often talked about his love for the Swiss Maestro. That he regards the latter highly is no fresh news, but he also mentioned how he would love to take after him by following in his footsteps. Alas! Some dreams must remain as dreams only.
Jannik Sinner’s biggest Roger Federer regret on the court
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The 22-year-old Italian star recently interviewed with Corriere, a daily Italian newspaper. In the interview, Sinner spoke optimistically about many aspects of his game, but he couldn’t help but be a little downcast when the conversation turned to his idol. He talked highly of Federer as usual, but he felt a little somber when he remembered that he would never be able to play against his idol.
One of the most interesting lines from Sinner's interview with @Corriere. 🎙️🇮🇹
"I have been lucky in my life, but I miss Federer. I accept it; it's part of the game. Official matches are no longer possible, maybe in the future, we will face each other in an exhibition. However,… pic.twitter.com/2Y9G5XVwlE
— Relevant Tennis (@RelevantTennis) November 10, 2023
Sinner said regretfully, “I have been lucky in my life, but I miss Federer. I accept it; it’s part of the game. Official matches are no longer possible, maybe in the future, we will face each other in an exhibition. However, I wouldn’t change anything: I am happy to be a tennis player of this era. The new generation offers different styles, characters, and personalities.”
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Sinner has made his peace with never being able to face one of the biggest champions the game has ever produced. However, that will not stop him from recreating a similar playing style as Federer’s – as he himself confessed,
Sinner wants to replicate the immaculate style of Federer
In June, the ginger-haired tennis player was asked about his life goals and intentions regarding his future in tennis. Being a big fan of the Swiss Maestro, he said he wanted to replicate the abilities and feats of Federer. However, he did not only say it in his capacity as a fan but also as a tennis player. He wants to be like his idol because he seems to possess the answer to all the problems of the world.
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Sinner also said that Federer was a complete player, and he wants to become a more well-rounded player like his favorite. The player has been improving slowly and even won his first masters title this year. He is on track to becoming more like Federer and might soon land at the same stage as him.