Serena Williams' ex-coach gives his verdict on Jannik Sinner's triumphant start to Australian Open 2025

Jannik Sinner's triumphant start to the 2025 Australian Open has received huge words of praise from Serena Williams' ex-coach Rick Macci. The Italian, who is the top seed, is defending his crown in Melbourne.

Sinner kicked off his campaign against the dangerous Nicolas Jarry on Monday (January 13). Despite the Chilean producing some brilliant tennis in the opening two sets, the World No. 1 proved his mettle in the tiebreakers and decimated Jarry in the third set to win 7-6(2), 7-6(5), 6-1.

Serena Williams's ex-coach Rick Macci, who often shows his support for Jannik Sinner, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his delight with the 23-year-old's performance and hailed him as the 'Italian Flamethrower'. The American coach has also coached the likes of Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, and Jennifer Capriati.

"Great first round match for Sinner. To play a huge server like Jarry and get to counterpunch a risk taker forced Jannik into a shot maker. To get in and out in straight sets shows me the Italian Flamethrower is mentally locked loaded and ready to launch," he tweeted.

Sinner did have a fiery 2024 season with a staggering 73-6 win/loss record, conquering both hardcourt Majors, reaching the World No. 1, winning eight titles, and receiving many other accolades.

"I had an amazing last year with a lot of success but it never changed who I am" - Jannik Sinner

Jannik Sinner - Source: Getty

During the post-match interview, Jannik Sinner was asked what motivated him to be the best version of himself to which he said other great players inspired him to do better while his team was the reason he achieved the desired results. He also mentioned how being true to oneself was the key.

"I believe success should never change us as people. 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," he said.

Jannik Sinner has won 15 consecutive matches at the hardcourt Majors and has won his last 29 sets. He will look to continue his run against home favorite Tristan Schoolkate in the second round. The Aussie claimed a stunning (6)6-7, 7-6(4), 6-1, 6-4 comeback win over Taro Daniel to kick off his campaign. This will be the first meeting between the two.