AUSTRALIAN OPEN

January 16, 2025

Jannik Sinner

Press Conference

J. SINNER/T. Schoolkate

4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3

THE MODERATOR: How much were you surprised in the first set, and what do you think of your level overall today?

JANNIK SINNER: I felt like he was playing great tennis, especially the first set. For one set and a half he was serving much better than I was. He was playing some great tennis.

I didn't know him as a player that much. Was difficult for me. But, you know, he was producing more tennis than I was for one hour. It was tough match to get through. I'm happy how I handle the situation.

Obviously I can improve for the next matches, but I'm happy that I'm through. Was a tough match.

THE MODERATOR: Questions, please.

Q. Can you explain what that's like when you need to work out a new opponent? Does that take a set or two normally?

JANNIK SINNER: Yeah, it depends also how someone starts the match, no? If you manage to break him a little bit earlier, then it gives you this confidence. You play a bit more freely.

But he was playing, especially in important moments in the first set, he was serving big serves, amazing volleys. It was a tough match to get through. I mean, these matches, they can go fast away. You never know what can happen exactly.

Of course, best-of-five helps you a little bit. Taking your time, trying to work things out. But all things considered, I'm happy. Let's see what's coming the next round.

Q. Today was the attendance record for the Australian Open, one-day record. What do you think the crowds are like? Are they getting more lively, more noisy? What do you think about that?

JANNIK SINNER: Yeah, I feel like it's great for tennis, no? I think the goal should be to make tennis as big as possible. Here the fans are very passionate. Today they played a lot of Australian players in big courts. It's nice to see the players who have the home crowd with them. It's nice because it's also right that we are in Australia, and they go behind the Australian players.

It's nice to see. I feel like the facilities, they are very, very big here, center court, and they have amazing second, third, fourth courts which has great capacity of people. It's nice to see them full.

Also for us players, that's what we love, to see packed stadiums. We try to bring out our best. Obviously today was a bit windy, difficult situations on court. Maybe was not the best match to watch, but it's nice to see crowd.

Q. Darren might not be part of your team next year. Can you speak on that and what he's brought to your setup?

JANNIK SINNER: No, he brought me so many things. One year is still long. I don't want to talk so much about his retirement.

I feel very, very lucky and happy to be his last player on tour. He has been an amazing, amazing coach and person, not only for me but for all the other players he has worked with.

For me it's just a huge honor. Hopefully we can make a nice season. But let's see. Let's see what's coming in the future. He has a beautiful family, so many great things to come for him also after his tennis job, no?

Let's see. But the year is still long.