Jannik Sinner conquers the French: thousands at'training. But there are those who complain about the "easy" draw;
First practice in France for Jannik Sinner ahead of his debut at Roland Garros 2026. The world number one, who will make his first-round debut against Frenchman Clement Tabur, was warmly welcomed in Paris. The Italian trained on Thursday afternoon with Valentin Vacherot, and upon his entrance onto the court he was greeted by cheers from fans who had flocked to see him live.
The South Tyrolean tennis player has won the first five Masters 1000s of the season, and is the big favorite for the second Slam of the season, the only one he has not yet won. The first pictures of his practice on the Chatrier court, where he put on a show with Carlos Alcaraz last year, appeared on social media: Vagnozzi, Cahill and his entire staff were present. In the stands at least 5,000 fans, the journalists present let them know.
There was no shortage of the usual controversy, however: many tennis fans (especially Djokovic fans) complained about the draw for the Azzurro, which they said was too easy. “I sincerely believe that Jannik Sinner’s draw for Roland Garros 2026 represents the easiest path I have ever seen to winning a major title in any sport,” “Congratulations to Jannik Sinner. A much easier draw than Djokovic’s,” “A decidedly favorable draw for Sinner at a time when he doesn’t need it at all,” are some of the comments on X.
Sinner’s first opponent, Clément Tabur, is a 26-year-old French tennis player currently ranked No. 165 in the world rankings, his best career ranking. Tabur is participating in the tournament thanks to a wild card granted by the organizers. Looking at the possible path through the draw, in the second round the Azure could face either Jacob Fearnley or Juan Manuel Cerundolo, while in the round of 16 it is possible to cross paths with compatriot Luciano Darderi. In the quarters watch out for one between Shelton and Bublik. The big danger for Sinner is Daniil Medvedev, who gave him a hard time in Rome: the two could cross paths again in the semifinals.
