World No. 2 Jannik Sinner has convincingly advanced to the second round of the 2025 Erste Bank Open in Vienna. Following his dominant triumph, the Italian opened up about what it’s like to play in front of his family, including his parents, and how special it feels to have them around off the court after matches.
Before his campaign in Vienna, the Italian competed at the 2025 Shanghai Masters, where he was considered one of the favorites to claim the title. He began strongly with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Germany’s Daniel Altmaier, but his fortunes took a turn in the third round against Tallon Griekspoor, as severe cramps forced him to retire at 6-7(3), 7-5, 3-2.
Jannik Sinner Speaks About His Parents’ Presence in Vienna Following Dominant First-Round Win
Nonetheless, Sinner appeared to have made a swift recovery, and just days after the setback in Shanghai, he returned to action at the ATP 500 event in Vienna, once again facing Altmaier in the first round.
The Italian was unplayable on the fast indoor courts, dropping just six points in the first set to take it 6-0. He carried his dominance into the second, sealing it 6-2 and wrapping up the match in just 58 minutes.
Sinner’s parents, Siglinde and Hanspeter, were reportedly in Vienna for the match. In his post-match interview, the Italian admitted he wasn’t certain his mother had watched from the stands, as she tends to get nervous during his matches, but he was thrilled to have his father in his box. Sinner also revealed that his elder brother Mark wasn’t in Vienna, and he hoped to see him in Turin for the ATP Finals.
“My mom usually gets nervous watching. I don’t know if she was here in the stands or not. Having my dad in the box, it’s great. Also, my brother is not here. But it’s fine. Maybe he comes to Turin,” he said.
The Italian also shared how having his loved ones around off the court creates a positive and uplifting atmosphere that helps him feel more relaxed during matches.
“We are just a very normal family. When I play outside when they are not there watching, my dad is still watching the matches at home. I know he’s watching. I try to get used to it. They also know how many sacrifices I’ve made and I continue to do.. the journey also has to be fun. It’s a great atmosphere off the court if I have the people around me, the loved ones.. I feel much lighter on court,” he added.
Sinner has repeatedly acknowledged the sacrifices his parents made to ease his tennis journey, despite their humble background. He has also credited them for granting him the freedom to pursue tennis, even after excelling as a skier. Now, the World No. 2 aims to make them proud with his ongoing Vienna run.
