Jannik Sinner reminded me of Venus Williams because of one glaring weakness in his game, shares Italian Tennis Federation president
Italian Tennis Federation president Angelo Binaghi recently revealed his early impressions of Jannik Sinner, disclosing that the World No. 1 reminded him of Venus Williams. Interestingly, Binaghi noticed one particular weakness in the Italian that reminded him of the seven-time Grand Slam champion.
Sinner had one of the greatest seasons by an ATP player in 2024, winning two Grand Slam titles (Australian Open and US Open) and ending the year by winning the ATP Finals. Yet, the Italian has maintained his humble persona, very rarely stepping into the public limelight and even insisting that he prefers the calm climate in his quiet hometown.
Speaking in an interview with La Nuova Sardegna, Binaghi shared his early impressions of the two-time Grand Slam champion, noting that even then he was impressed by his simplicity.
At the same time, he saw an 'athletic difficulty' in the Italian that reminded him of Venus Williams, even though he showed just as much potential as the American legend. Thankfully, Binaghi added, Sinner made up for that weakness by improving his tenacity and working his fitness.
"I was impressed by his education and simplicity. On the court you could already see his enormous value, from a technical point of view he was of the highest level. But he still had to make up for some physical deficiencies, he was a little immature," he said.
"He reminded me a bit of Venus Williams: incredible potential, but athletic difficulties to cover the court. Then, Sinner's tenacity and determination designed a complete player, without weak points. At this point he is a rocket in his movements, he has improved his serve and he also knows how to be incisive at the net," he added.
Venus Williams continues to be part of WTA Tour despite being sidelined currently due to injuries, and is expected to be in action in 2025 at the Sunshine Double.
Italian Tennis Federation president reveals his son played tennis with Jannik Sinner as a junior
In the interview, Angelo Binaghi revealed that he knew a lot about Jannik Sinner and his impressive abilities because his son played tennis with the World No. 1 as a junior, partnering him in doubles. Although the pair reached the semifinals in a tournament together, they had to withdraw because of an injury on the part of Sinner.
"I had first-hand information, a very confidential and trusted source: my son. He had played a doubles tournament in Tunisia with Sinner and he told me about a partner younger than him, but who was already very strong and promising."
"He must have been about 17 years old at the time. Together with my son they reached the semi-finals, but then they had to withdraw because Jannik got injured ," he said.
Jannik Sinner will start his 2025 season at the Australian Open, where he is the defending champion.