World No. 1 Jannik Sinner (23) reflected on the emotional toll of ongoing doping allegations after securing Italy’s second consecutive Davis Cup victory on Sunday, capping off an incredible year. Despite clinching major titles at the Australian Open, US Open, and ATP Finals, Sinner admitted that the shadow of the accusations has made it difficult to fully focus on his game.
Sinner is still awaiting the final decision on an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) against his earlier exoneration. In March, he had tested positive for traces of clostebol, a steroid, but was cleared of wrongdoing.
"Of course, it’s been on my mind a bit," Sinner shared, speaking candidly about the mental strain. "The most important thing is that those close to me, who truly know me, trust me. That’s why I’ve been able to maintain my level of play."
He also admitted that the controversy had taken an emotional toll. "Emotionally, I’ve been a bit down and heartbroken. Life throws challenges your way, and you just have to face them," he added.
Sinner finished 2024 on a high note, leading Italy to victory in the Davis Cup final against the Netherlands. He delivered the decisive point, defeating Tallon Griekspoor 7-6, 6-2, after Matteo Berrettini had given Italy an early lead with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 win over Botic van de Zandschulp.
Reflecting on Italy’s triumph, Sinner said, “The team has been incredible. Defending our title was no easy feat, but we did it, and we’re beyond thrilled. A lot of work went into this success.”
This marks Italy’s third Davis Cup title, and the first time since the Czech Republic in 2013 that a team has successfully defended the trophy. Italy also made history by winning both the Davis Cup and the Billie Jean King Cup in the same year, a rare double.
The match took place at the Martin Carpena Arena, with a vibrant atmosphere fueled by passionate fans from both Italy and the Netherlands. It was the first time in 104 years that the Netherlands had reached the Davis Cup final.
Sinner has been nearly unbeatable this year, with few players able to challenge his dominance. Griekspoor, ranked No. 40, is one of those players, having now lost all six encounters with the Italian.
The match began with a strong start from Sinner, who fired three aces in the opening game. Griekspoor fought back, creating two break point opportunities in the third game, but Sinner saved them both. The Dutchman continued to play well, forcing a tie-break after holding his serve twice to love. However, Sinner's skill and precision shone through. He earned an early mini-break and then another to take the tie-break 7-2 and win the first set.
The second set saw Sinner’s superiority continue. He broke Griekspoor’s serve for a 2-1 lead, then capitalized on a double fault from the Dutchman to break again for 3-2. A third break in the seventh game sealed the victory for Sinner, who hit a scorching ace to finish the match.
Earlier in the tournament, Berrettini played a crucial role in Italy’s victory despite an ankle injury that kept him out of the 2023 Davis Cup. He partnered with Sinner in the doubles decider against Argentina and won his singles rubber against Thanasi Kokkinakis in the semi-finals.
"Being back on court feels incredible," Berrettini said. "Winning is great, but the most important thing for me is being healthy and enjoying this atmosphere. I missed moments like these, so I’m thrilled to be a part of it again."
With the win, Italy solidified its place in Davis Cup history, and for Sinner, it was a perfect end to a remarkable year.
