Novak Djokovic’s former fitness coach, Marco Panichi, recently outlined why it is crucial for Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to operate at their peak consistently. Panichi boasts an illustrious résumé, having worked closely with the 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic and, more recently, with Sinner.
The Italian trainer is currently working with Danish youngster Holger Rune, who is recovering from an Achilles injury he sustained in October.
Novak Djokovic’s Former Fitness Coach Issues Warning to Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner Despite Having “An Edge” Over Peers
Alcaraz and Sinner have firmly established themselves as two of the biggest forces on the ATP Tour, with the 2025 season serving as a clear reflection of their dominance. Alcaraz enjoyed a standout year, capturing eight titles, including two Grand Slams and three Masters 1000 crowns. The Spaniard closed the season as World No. 1, backed by a phenomenal 71–9 win-loss record.
Sinner, meanwhile, enjoyed an equally dominant season, winning six titles and finishing 2025 as the World No. 2. The Italian successfully defended his title at the Australian Open while winning his maiden Wimbledon crown. He had the perfect finish to the season by winning the Vienna Open, Paris Masters and the ATP Finals.
Given their current form and statistics, the gap between Alcaraz and Sinner, and the rest of the field appears significant. However, Panichi believes the duo must remain equally vigilant and continue working relentlessly on themselves to sustain their supremacy on tour. Speaking to La Repubblica, the renowned athletic trainer shared this view when asked whether Alcaraz and Sinner would once again stand apart from the rest in 2026.
“They have an edge, but they know that to stay ahead, they can’t be distracted for a single day. Because the others are making progress too. You have to always be at your best: physically and mentally. It’s not easy,” he said.
It remains to be seen how the world’s top two sustain their form and consistency in the upcoming season. The pressure early on is likely to be greater on Sinner heading into the Australian Open, where he will compete as the defending champion. A successful title defense would see the Italian achieve a rare three-peat.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, stands one Australian Open triumph away from completing the Career Grand Slam. The six-time major champion has already lifted each of the other three majors twice, winning Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
