Jannik Sinner gets real about how he has dealt with the success of breakthrough 2024 season

Jannik Sinner has enjoyed his fair share of success over the last 12 months. He has lifted two Grand Slam titles in the period and ascended to the top of the men’s singles rankings. Back at the Australian Open to defend one of the two Slams he won last year, his campaign got off to a winning start.

The Italian won in straight sets over Nicolas Jarry, who put up a strong fight in the opening two sets. His more fancied opponent, however, eventually prevailed 7-6(2), 7-6(5), 6-1. Sinner was asked during his on-court interview about the pressure that comes with so much success and how he handles it.

“I believe success should never change us as people,” he said. “I had an amazing last year with a lot of success. But it never changed who I am. There are so many great players that continue to motivate me. I have to say I have the best team in the world. I’m happy to have them. We try to improve.”

The top seed will next take on local favorite Tristan Schoolkate in the second round. The Aussie beat seasoned campaigner Taro Daniel in his opening match.

---

Jannik Sinner's Australian Open campaign off to a winning start

Jannik Sinner in action during his first-round encounter at the 2025 Australian Open. (Source: Getty)

Jannik Sinner got off to a winning start but faced stiff resistance from Nicolas Jarry in the opening round. The top seed needed three sets to secure his first break of serve.

Both served brilliantly throughout the opening two sets, rarely giving each other a chance. The two sets went to a tiebreaker where the top seed’s experience shone through as he found himself up two sets.

In a commanding position heading into the third seed, Sinner found his groove and could break Jarry twice to complete the 7-6(2), 7-6(5), 6-1 victory.