Jannik Sinner Details Rafael Nadal’s Greatest Quality Which Makes Him Superior To Others

The Italian teenager Jannik Sinner has been backed up by many experts as an asset for the future of tennis. In 2020, he became the youngest quarterfinalist of the decade when he faced Rafael Nadal at Roland-Garros. Later on, the 19-year-old Italian won his maiden ATP title at the Sofia Open in Bulgaria.

Born in South Tyrol in Italy, Jannik is a young aspirant brimming with exceptional tennis talent. Despite the pandemic-ridden season, Sinner leaped from the 78 to the 37 position in the world. On that note, he expressed a desire to play even more matches. Also speaking about the biggest match of his career, the Italian revealed the situation against World No. 2.

“Rafael Nadal pulls hard like everyone else”: Jannik Sinner

Creating a major upset, the Italian defeated World No. 7 Alexander Zverev in the fourth round at the French Open. This resulted in his first encounter against the record-winner of the tournament Rafa Nadal. The Spaniard continued his successful run and completed his 13 title claim in France.

After the end of the season, Jannik revealed the distinguishing element of ‘The King of Clay’. “He’s superior in the head. He pulls hard like everyone else but he understands the moments, he knows exactly what to do, how and when. It’s another thing,” Sinner said.

(Quotes have been translated)

The match began on a great tempo as Jannik dragged the first set into a tie-breaker. But eventually, the 34-year-old Spanish champion took control of the match and qualified for the semi-finals.

Sinner lost to Rafa in 3 straight sets 6-7 (4-7), 4-6, 1-6

For the 19-year-old Italian, losing to Nadal in a quarter-final of a Grand Slam tournament is a big achievement. It provided him the much-needed boost every young player needs and helped him secure his first singles title.

After equaling the 20 Grand Slam tally with Roger Federer, Rafa went on to reach two semi-finals ahead. He lost against two next-generation players; Zverev in Paris Masters and Daniil Medvedev in the London Finals. Interestingly, Nadal has never won either of the two titles ever before.

On the other side, Sinner will feel content with his performance throughout the season. The challenge for him now is to upgrade himself consistently and continue to play at major tournaments. And maybe next year, win against Nadal.

Also Read: “One of the Candidates to be Number 1”: Toni Nadal Makes Big Claim on Jannik Sinner