Will Sinner make the leap to Melbourne? He’s confirmed his intention to compete at the Australian Open in January.
The Italian hasn’t stepped on court since defending his Wimbledon crown in July, sidelined by a knee problem.
Having lost the world No.1 spot to Alexander Zverev, Sinner captured Melbourne titles in 2024 and 2025 before falling to Novak Djokovic in this year’s semi‑final.
“The goal is to return to Australia,” the 25‑year‑old told reporters in Milan.
He may enter a few events earlier, but he insists on taking each day one step at a time, warning that haste could worsen his condition.
‘Draper gets me.’
The five‑time Grand Slam champion also praised Britain’s Jack Draper, alongside Matteo Berrettini and Carlos Alcaraz, for their encouragement during his injury spell.
Draper has ruled out a comeback before 2027 after missing every major this season, describing a “difficult place” after his first‑round loss to Martin Landaluce at the Cincinnati Open in August and admitting lingering mental fatigue from 15 months of battling serious injury.
“When I announced my season was over, Berrettini and Draper reached out immediately,” Sinner added. “Jack is also navigating a tough stretch, so he gets what I’m experiencing.”
“Alcaraz sent me a message, and I replied in kind. I really appreciated it.”
“We’re searching for a way out of this slump and hoping to feel those emotions again.”
“Tennis isn’t a job for me; I play because I love it.”
Cahill on Norman’s appointment.
Sinner was accompanied by Darren Cahill, the coach he split from last week after four years, while Sweden’s Magnus Norman has joined his coaching team.
“You have to ask countless questions to understand the player you’re coaching—that’s how you earn his trust,” Cahill explained. “We’ve built an incredible squad, but 99 % of the success stems from him.”
“He’s the one out on court; everyone else contributes the final 1 %, and that makes the difference.”
Sinner described Cahill as a “second dad” and said the two will stay close friends, noting that former world No.2 Norman shares many traits with the Australian.
“He worked with Stan Wawrinka for years and has endured a lot,” Sinner said. “He embraces our current approach, which spares me from overhauling everything again.”
“I aim to add one percent each year to improve as a player.”
Cahill had no role in the decision to bring Norman aboard.
“A 2013 tweet of mine praised Norman’s ability to elevate any player he coaches,” he recalled. “Having Simone Vagnozzi on board ensures continuity.”
“I wasn’t part of the selection process, but I believe it’s an excellent choice.”
Sinner: Antonelli’s title win inspired me. For my money, his calm confidence could set a new benchmark for young athletes. Could his renewed focus spark a dominant 2027 season?
While outlining his rehab, Sinner congratulated fellow Italian Kimi Antonelli, who became the youngest ever Formula 1 World Champion after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
“Motorsport is the only sport I watch that truly excites me. MotoGP and F1 give me an incredible boost,” he said.
“Kimi achieved something amazing. He’s learned so much this year, and his feat moves me deeply.”
“He’s a laid‑back, normal 20‑year‑old, showing the most genuine side of youth, which resonates with me.”