While some influences shape a person’s success, others shape their souls. For Italy’s star athlete Jannik Sinner, his late aunt did both in his life. More than a mere family member, Sinner’s aunt became his life’s guiding force, leaving behind lessons that were not only valuable in his career but also for life. So, who was this powerhouse of a woman in Jannik Sinner’s life, and how did she contribute to shaping the sport’s legend-in-the-making?

Sinner gears up to win his third Grand Slam title at the 2025 Australian Open tournament today at Rod Laver Arena. Last year, he won his maiden major title on Melbourne soil, leaving the fraternity quite impressed. While his parents and elder brother had his back throughout this challenging journey, there was another person who contributed to Sinner’s motivation. That was none other than his aunt, Meggi Rauchegge.

Rauchegge, Sinner’s maternal aunt, was actively involved in the Italian’s life. He once revealed how she took him to ski races when his parents used to be busy with their work and helped him in the summer when his parents used to be busy with work. Reflecting on their bond, Sinner said, “It’s so nice that I can share positive moments still with her. She was a very important person for my life and she still is. If there would be a biggest wish, I would wish everyone the best health, but unfortunately, it’s not possible.”

Despite Sinner’s prayers, his aunt departed from the mortal world at 56, just weeks after his emotional statement. While the reason for Rauchegge’s passing away wasn’t disclosed, it deeply impacted the Italian player. Highlighting the hectic scheduling of the tour and constant demands of travel, Sinner confessed that it becomes “difficult to spend time with the people who you really love.” His statement shed light on the difficulty of athletes juggling lives between their families and careers.

In a gut-wrenching turn of events, Sinner had to return to Beijing for 2024 China Open right after his aunt’s death. Soon after, he was riddled with grief during the holiday season. The ATP star called last Christmas a “Strange Christmas” without his aunt, with her absence leaving him emotionally distressed. Reflecting on that feeling, Sinner said, “Life sometimes gives you positives and good things. Yeah. She’s a very rare person for my life.”

Aunt Rauchegge was so important in Jannik Sinner’s life that the Italian ATP star dedicated one of his career’s most important victories to her. In doing so, Sinner dropped some heartwarming words for his aunt showing how close-knit his relationship was with her.

Jannik Sinner’s 2024 US Open title was dedicated to his aunt

Sinner didn’t hesitate a moment to dedicate his 2024 US Open trophy to his aunt. Remembering how she supported his career journey, Sinner said, “I would like to dedicate this title to my aunt because she is really not feeling well health-wise. I don’t know how much longer I still have her in my life.” He explained that he might love the sport and work hard to reach cherished milestones, but at the same time, he values his life beyond tennis too. “It is precious to share this moment with her,” Sinner said at the trophy presentation ceremony.

Jannik Sinner’s success isn’t a one-man journey but a testament to his family’s dedication to his career. From his parents and elder brother to his late aunt, everyone significantly contributed to helping Jannik Sinner reach the ATP number one position. And like a family man, Sinner has always acknowledged that support and showed how love and motivation from loved ones fuel his drive to attain greatness.