Jannik Sinner made a bold move by hiring Roman Panichi as his new fitness coach, signaling his intention to collaborate with proven winners as he enters the next chapter of his career.
Sinner’s victory at the US Open was even more impressive considering the turmoil surrounding him in the months leading up to his first win in New York, particularly after his failed drug tests in March.
While Sinner had been dealing with the fallout from his two positive tests for clostebol, the situation intensified just days before the US Open when it became public knowledge.
The handling of the case sparked significant debate and became a major topic of discussion in tennis this year. Consequently, Sinner made the difficult decision to part ways with fitness coach Umberto Ferrara and physio Giacomo Naldi, as their involvement placed them at the center of the controversy.
“They (Ferrara and Naldi) have been a significant part of my career. We worked together for two years, achieving a lot of success and building a great team around me,” Sinner stated.
“Now, due to these mistakes, I don’t feel confident continuing with them. What I need right now is just some clean air. I struggled a lot in the past months, and after waiting for the results, I just need some fresh air.”
Following his US Open triumph with a streamlined team, Sinner sought to rebuild his support system, and the decision to hire Panichi is noteworthy.
Panichi had been a key figure in Djokovic’s camp until his unexpected departure earlier this year and discussed his experiences working with the 24-time Grand Slam champion after their collaboration ended.
“When the pressure rises and Novak becomes like a boiling pot ready to overflow, you need to lift the lid,” Panichi shared with Tennis Majors.
“It wasn’t always perfect, but it was a great honor to work with him.
“With a player of his caliber, stress is always present. You must manage not just the player but the entire organization—players like him operate like an industry, which adds to the stress.
“Additionally, elite players constantly push you to do more. That’s simply part of the game.”
“I will share with my future players how Novak approached his career, and I’m confident that will be extremely beneficial, especially for the younger players.”
Panichi’s addition to Sinner’s team will enable the Italian to access some of the insights that helped Djokovic reach the pinnacle of the sport and, more importantly, maintain his dominance until just before his 36th birthday.
Sinner has faced fitness challenges in recent months, and his ongoing hip injury may require careful management. Panichi’s background with elite tennis players means he will provide much more than just the typical fitness coach one might find in other sports.
The Serbian legend is unlikely to have any objections to Sinner consulting one of his former trusted associates, especially as Djokovic’s career approaches its final chapters. This move appears to be a wise decision for the new world No. 1 as he aims to emulate Djokovic’s success over the next decade.
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