"I can't afford to change": Jannik Sinner makes eye-opening remark about how girlfriend Anna Kalinskaya's presence hasn't changed anything in his life
Jannik Sinner has shared an insight into his relationship with his girlfriend, fellow tennis player Anna Kalinskaya. The Italian candidly discussed Kalinskaya's presence in his life and reflected on whether it had led to any personal change.
Sinner has achieved remarkable success this season, winning his maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and following it up with his US Open triumph, while also clinching Masters 1000 titles in Miami, Cincinnati, and Shanghai. Anna Kalinkaya has been a steady source of support for the Italian, frequently cheering him on since the couple confirmed their relationship at the French Open.
Kalinskaya memorably showed her support during the 23-year-old's triumph at the New York Major, with the couple exchanging a heartwarming kiss after his victory. The Russian also consoled Sinner with a warm hug after his loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the China Open final.
Sinner has returned the favor on many occasions, displaying his support for her career. He also surprised Anna Kalinskaya's brother Nikolay, who is an avid Steph Curry, with a signed t-shirt by the NBA superstar.
However, the World No. 1 expressed his belief that Anna Kalinskaya's presence hadn't changed much in his life. In a recent interview with Esquire, Jannik Sinner explained that he wanted his relationship with the Russian to fit seamlessly into his wife without altering him as a player or a person. Sinner emphasized that their relationship worked precisely because of this balance.
"I don't think anything has changed. Having a girlfriend is something that either makes you feel good or makes you feel bad. I want it to be something that feels very natural, which comes into my life normally. I can't afford to change as a player or as a person. That hasn't happened, that's why it works," Sinner said.
Jannik Sinner is currently in Turin for the 2024 ATP Finals, aiming to clinch his maiden title at the year-end championships after falling short against Novak Djokovic in last year's final. The Italian has been drawn in the Ilie Nastase Group, alongside Daniil Medvedev, Taylor Fritz, and Alex de Minaur.
Jannik Sinner: "I always try to support Anna Kalinskaya because she also tries to support me, giving some positive energy"
Jannik Sinner recently opened up about the memorable kiss he shared with his girlfriend Anna Kalinskaya after his triumph at the 2024 US Open. In an interview with CCTV5, the Italian described it as a "nice moment," emphasizing their efforts to support one another as much as possible.
"It was a nice moment. We just support each other as much as we can," Jannik Sinner said.
Sinner also disclosed that he and Kalinskaya had very different playing styles, so they didn't trade tennis strategies and instead focused on providing each other with positive energy.
"As tennis players we are, you know, different. I am different also to other tennis players. But for sure I always try to support her because she also tries to support me, giving some positive energy," he added.
On the tennis front, Jannik Sinner is set to take on Alex de Minaur in his opening match at the 2024 ATP Finals in Turin. The World No. 1 enjoys a perfect 7-0 record against De Minaur, including a 7-5, 6-4 victory in their most recent clash in the 2024 Rotterdam Open final.