Rome, Jannik Sinner reunites with Sebastian Ofner: thanks to him he took the plunge

Jannik Sinner can’t wait to take the court at the Foro Italico. The fans’ enthusiasm is through the roof, the anticipation is enormous. Now, finally, the name of the opponent is also known: Sebastian Ofner. The Austrian is an old acquaintance of the world number 1. In fact, he has been instrumental in the career of the South Tyrolean.

We need to go back to 2019, specifically to the final of the Ortisei Challenger. Sebastian Ofner, then 22, and a very young Jannik Sinner played for the trophy. The Italian won in two sets (6-2, 6-4 the partials). It would be the last Challenger for Jannik Sinner, who, right after that final, would move upstairs.

In short, Sebastian Ofner, now world number 82, was decisive for the Italian’s career. Losing that final in Ortisei certified the talent of Jannik Sinner, who has thus convinced himself that he is ready to climb the ATP rankings and play the big tournaments.

The two, seven years later, meet again. First ATP challenge with Sebastian Ofner who wants to believe he can even the score with the current world No. 1: “I have to think I can beat him, otherwise I couldn’t even play. One of the keys might be my serve. I have to stay in the match and try to take advantage of the chances I will get,” his words after beating Alex Michelsen and giving himself a rematch with Jannik Sinner.