Jannik Sinner couldn’t be happier to have his parents cheering him on at the 2026 Italian Open. After kicking off his campaign with a commanding victory, the world No. 1 opened up about the importance of their presence in the stands and shared his thoughts on the contrasting emotions they display during his matches.
Jannik Sinner Highlights the Difference in His Parents’ Courtside Reactions
Sinner has a lot on the line at the Italian Open, as he chases his maiden title at his home event and looks to become the second man after Novak Djokovic to complete the coveted Career Golden Masters. However, the world No. 1 displayed no signs of pressure while cruising to a 6-3, 6-4 victory in his opening match against Sebastian Ofner, following a first-round bye.
The 24-year-old’s parents were in attendance at Campo Centrale, watching as their son extended his winning streak at ATP Masters 1000 events to 29 matches.
Speaking to the media after his win, Sinner candidly reflected on how much it means to have his parents in the stands. He revealed that he often glances at them during matches, noticing the contrast between his mother’s anxious expressions and his father’s calm demeanor.
“It’s very nice, I don’t see them as much as maybe other players do at times. So, I’m very happy to share these moments with them. They’re wonderful parents. Sometimes, even during matches I like to look at them. My mom is very stressed and my dad’s very calm. So it’s a good combination. Very happy. Maybe also my brother comes on Monday, so it would be nice,” the Italian said.
MORE: ‘Biggest Difference Is for Jannik Sinner’: Alexander Zverev Unpacks Carlos Alcaraz’s Rome Absence
The four-time Grand Slam champion’s delight at having his parents by his side comes as no surprise. Following his recent triumph at the Madrid Open, Sinner made an emotional admission about wanting to make up for lost time with his family. Despite this, he respected his mother’s reason for only occasionally joining him at tournaments.
“Obviously at home, my grandma and grandpa, the parents of my mom, they’re still both alive and so I understand her very much that she wants to stay at home and spend as much time as possible with them. But I also would like to have more time with family,” he said.
Jannik Sinner is expected to once again enjoy his parents’ support when he faces Alexei Popyrin in the third round of the Italian Open. If he wins, the world No. 1 will set up a fourth-round showdown with the winner of the match between Frances Tiafoe and Andrea Pellegrino.