Jannik Sinner's ailing aunt dies at 56 following Italian's emotional shout-out during US Open 2024 - Reports

Jannik Sinner's aunt, Meggi Rauchegge, to whom he paid tribute during his victory speech at the 2024 US Open, has died at the age of 56, according to recent reports. She was the sister of Sinner's mother, Siglinde, and was a key figure in his upbringing, providing care and support during his childhood.

Sinner defeated Taylor Fritz earlier this month to win his first title at Flushing Meadows and his second Grand Slam overall, having previously won the Australian Open in January. During his emotional victory speech, he spoke about how his aunt’s health struggles impacted him mentally and dedicated the win to her.

"I would like to dedicate this title to my aunt because she is really not feeling well health-wise. I don't know how much longer I still have her in my life," the World No. 1 said.

"It's so nice that I can share positive moments still with her. She was a very important person for my life and she still is. If there would be a biggest wish, I would wish everyone the best health, but unfortunately, it's not possible," he added.

Weeks later, on Sunday, September 21, the Italian sports newspaper Tuttosport reported that Meggi Rauchegge had passed away, although the cause was not disclosed. The family also released a statement, which reads:

"We will accompany our dear Meggi on Tuesday, September 24th at 1:45 p.m. From the hospital church to the parish church of Villabassa for the farewell service. The burial of the urn will take place at a later time in the closest circle of family and friends."

"With love and gratitude: your husband Karl with your beloved son René, your parents Giuseppe and Maria, your sister Siglinde with Hanspeter, Jannik and son Mark with Lisa, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, your goddaughter Anna, your mother-in-law Emma, all relatives and friends," it continues.

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Jannik Sinner on his late aunt Meggi: "She always helped me when my parents were working"

Jannik Sinner pictured at the 2024 US Open | Image Source: Getty

Jannik Sinner attended a press conference following his title win at the 2024 US Open against Taylor Fritz, where he continued to talk about his late aunt Meggi. He shared how she played a pivotal role in his life, helping him with various activities, including ski racing, during times when his parents were working and unable to be with him.

"My aunt, she’s a very important person because when my parents were working every day and all day so sometimes when I had to go to ski races, I went with her. She always helped me in summer time when my parents were working," he said.

Sinner also lamented not being able to spend time with his loved ones due to the demands of his career, which requires extensive travel throughout the year:

"We travel a lot so it’s difficult to spend time with the people who you really love. If I would have more time, for sure, I would spent more time with people I really care."

The Italian has touched down in Beijing, China, ready to compete as the top seed in the ATP 500 tournament, starting September 26. He’s made some intriguing adjustments to his team, bringing on Novak Djokovic’s former fitness trainer Marco Panichi and ex-physiotherapist Ulesis Badio. It will be interesting to see how this pans out for him.