It’s never easy to close a life-changing chapter and start over with a new one. No one expects updates that bring forth shock but it’s what we’ve got from Jannik Sinner. The Italian sensation, having recorded his dream run in 2024, announced a surprise update for fans moments after taking a step forward for a successful title defense at the Australian Open.

As per the latest reports, Sinner will part ways with longtime coach Darren Cahill. The World No. 1 confirmed the breaking news to Eurosport Italia’s microphones that the ongoing season will account for the Australian coach’s final endeavor in his coaching camp. The 59-year-old former pro has been a crucial part of the Italian’s success in recent years. He also guided the World No. 1 to two Slam wins last year, the Melbourne Slam and the US Open.

Sinner’s previous touring season came across as one of the finest showings of the year. He clinched eight ATP titles, which included title finishes in Rotterdam, Miami, Halle, Cincinnati, and Shanghai, among others. The Italian player also made $6M on the dot, notably the highest prize money in men’s tennis history, by bagging the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia. For his season-ending act, the World No. 1 outclassed his US Open final rival Taylor Fritz once again to lift his maiden ATP Finals crown.

However, not everything went according to plan for Sinner. The 23-year-old tested positive for a banned substance (Clostebol) during his Indian Wells campaign. As controversy erupted and he continued playing, many lamented the inconsistency in decision-making of such cases. Aussie Nick Kyrgios became the loudest voice criticizing the Italian star for not facing the music for his actions, despite being cleared of any wrongdoing by the ITIA.

Following his return to Melbourne, Sinner enjoyed a positive reception from the locals, amid his ongoing doping saga.

Jannik Sinner addresses supportive Melbourne crowd at the Australian Open

Defending champion Jannik Sinner wasn’t sure what to expect when he landed in Melbourne for the ‘Happy Slam’. His ongoing doping controversy turned many heads last year and even earned him a damning response from some. Regardless, speculations about a hostile crowd were put to rest after he enjoyed a supportive crowd during his opening round act at the Rod Laver Arena.

After downing Chile’s Nicolas Jarry in a grueling three-set showdown, 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-5) 6-1, Sinner addressed the crowd during an-court interview saying, “I was curious to see how it was. You never know what’s happening. I was happy about the crowd. It was a very nice crowd. There were some for my opponent and some for me. It was a nice atmosphere. I was just looking forward to go on court. This is what I practice for. I’m trying to compete in the best possible way.”

Sinner’s doping chapter, on the other hand, is far from done. Following the World Anti-Doping Association’s (WADA) appeal against his ‘no guilt or negligence’ order, the Italian is due for a final verdict for his positive dope test on April 16 and 17, 2025. If the decision doesn’t favor him, the World No. 1 might face a 2-year ban from the tour.

For now, he is focused on his title defense in Melbourne. Sinner will next lock horns with American Marcos Giron for a place in the fourth round on Saturday, January 18. Are you backing the Italian to successfully defend his title in Melbourne?