Jannik Sinner Aims for Glory in Halle as World Number One
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Jannik Sinner is set to make a strong return to the court this week at the ATP 500 tournament in Halle, where he aims to defend his impressive semifinal finish from last year. Fresh off a semifinal appearance at Roland Garros, the 22-year-old Italian sensation will debut as the world’s number one player. He faces a challenging first-round match against Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, a formidable opponent to kick off his grass-court campaign.
“Winning here would be very special because there aren’t many grass tournaments throughout the year," Sinner said. “I only play here and at Wimbledon, so I only get two chances this year. But overall, it’s great to be back on the lawn." Speaking to the ATP’s official website ahead of his Halle debut, Sinner reminisced about a memorable practice session with 24-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer: “I remember Luthi stopping me on the stairs of the hotel and asking if I could warm [Federer] up for his match. It was a very good feeling, a special feeling. I didn’t have the chance to play against Roger in an official match, and this is something that I will always miss, but I do remember the practice sessions with him.”
Sinner has his sights set on making deeper runs at Wimbledon after reaching the quarterfinals in 2022 and the semifinals last year. With his first Grand Slam title already under his belt this year, the Italian prodigy is eager to claim glory on grass.
“The first day you have to make the moves on the surface, and it is difficult, especially when you play the early rounds against players who have already played on grass," Sinner explained. “They have a little more feel for the surface, but this is a place where they believed in me. They gave me a wild card in the past, so I’m happy to be back here and hope I can show some good tennis from the beginning."
As Sinner gears up for his grass-court season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the world number one can continue his extraordinary run and secure another significant title on his growing list of achievements.
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