Richard Pagliaro | @tennisnow | Friday, July 4, 2025
Image source: Richard Pelham/Getty
Wimbledon–Jannik Sinner Has been dealt with Novak Djokovic Nine times.
Even if the world’s No. 1 didn’t face the Grand Slam King in court, Sina is still studying Djokovic’s video style.
The Best Seed Sinner swept Djokovic in the Roland Garros semifinal last month, handing over the Serbian superstar to his first major semifinal loss in 15 years.
For sinners, Djokovic is not only an opponent, but also a mentor.
Hall of Fame John McEnroe The ground movement of the sinner, especially his powerful backhanded hands, is likely based on Djokovic’s flawless ground strike.
“His backhand was one of the best shots,” John McEnroe said on the BBC earlier this week. “For me, he obviously studied Novak’s backhand because it was very similar. Then he had the wingspan.
“I think in the case of sinners, he was a six-foot three to four years old, and he almost looked like six-foot 10 due to Wingspan.
When asked about his style comparison with Djokovic, Sinner said that not only did he study the former world number one, he discussed technology with Djokovic.
“It’s hard to say, because I still believe we’re all different players, don’t we?” Sina said after defeating Alexander Waukic in Wimbledon’s second round. “We do have several similarities, how we hit the ball on forehand and backhand.
“I think he’s improved his serve a lot. Just like today his service is very good.”
The common similarity is their ball hitting, the technique on the ground, both men are excellent in the extension. The main difference, Sina said, is that Djokovic has more varieties and is more comfortable and experienced on the grass, while the three-time Grand Slam champion is stronger.
“But it’s also more of his experience than I do,” Sina said of Djokovic. “He mixes the game together. I’ll probably hit the bats faster. But, on the contrary, I’m also very stable, no, like him.
The contact did not end in court. Sinner recently broke up with former Djokovic trainer Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Uli Badio. Sina said Djokovic also shared the advice.
“There are some similarities,” Sina said. “But yes, I believe he gave me a lot of information that I could make my game similar to his game, but in my style.”
If sharing insights with his competitors sounds like a barrier for Djokovic, it really isn’t.
Wimbledon seeks advice from the Olympic gold medal champion at the start of the world’s No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Although Djokovic refused to discuss exactly what they said, he said he was always “available” when players seek insights – even if it was one of his top competitors.
“Of course, I’m happy to always share it with anyone, like I do with many other male tennis players,” Djokovic said. “Yes, obviously we’re talking about the treatment between us. I hope it makes them a great thing, even if it’s just an encouragement, even if they’ve heard before, it can sound different. It’s also different for them.
“Of course, I’m honored to be in the world No. 1, approach me, and ask me some questions, suggestions and guidance. This is certainly a very privileged position. Always try to be available.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=splv0e_bzns
Mastering the ideas and work routines of top champions is a way for coach Darren Cahill to help educate his players.
Before coaching the sinner, Cahill brought Simona Halep to the world number one, often bringing Romanians Rafael Nadal Practice meetings so that she can observe and imitate Clay’s King of Work Ethics.
Sinner also studied the skills of the ace master John Isner, who said he will continue to learn and learn from Djokovic.
“Yes, so I’m always trying to see from some players what I can do and try to see if it works well,” Sinner said. “Yes, he’s definitely the main character I look up to, trying to do something like him.”
If the seed is loyal to the form, sinners and Djokovic can share the court again in the Wimbledon semifinals.
