Jannik Sinner revealed he enjoys Novak Djokovic’s company on and off the court, adding that he is happy to see the indomitable Serb back in form.
The Italian could meet Djokovic in the semi-finals at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships if they both progress that far.
Sinner beat Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6(3) in an enthralling last-four clash at the French Open last month to improve his record against the 38-year-old tennis icon to 5-4.
The world No. 1 has won his last four encounters with Djokovic and five of the last six meetings, having lost four of their first five matches.
The three-time major champion is seeking his maiden Wimbledon title, while Djokovic is chasing a record-equalling eighth crown at the All England Club.
In an interview with Serbian outlet Sportklub, Sinner highlighted the threat Djokovic poses on grass and divulged that he looked up to the 24-time major winner as a young player.
“Both of us have a lot to push for there [at Wimbledon],” said the 23-year-old.
“I don’t think we need to talk about it, but… He likes to play on the grass and he has won so many times here. He knows exactly how to go to the ball, how to move and how to react to certain things.
“I looked up to him when I was younger, and whenever I spoke to him, he always gave me honest opinions.
“We have a good relationship off the field and I’m glad that he is in this form and that he is playing like this.
“I feel that he can play good tennis here, he will show that. I watched him practise, he is concentrated.
“Every player looks up to him, to his path, but of course sometimes they look at things from the other side. I wish him all the best.”
Following their French Open showdown, Sinner was full of praise for Djokovic and addressed comparisons between the pair.
“I have learned many things from him. I feel like my game style, it’s not the same, because we are different, but at times similar. So I have watched a lot with his videos,” Sinner explained.
“I was lucky that I could share the court with him some times ago in matches that you see things, how work, and if they work well or not.
“He’s very important for me as a player and also as a person. I really appreciate his kind words, because it means that I’m most improving as a player, which as I said before, is the most important part.”
