Jannik Sinner is back on the court and ready to chase a spot in the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh. World no. 2 will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the quarter-final on Wednesday night, hoping to arrange the clash against Novak Djokovic.
The defending champion feels fully recovered after his unexpected retirement in the third round of the Shanghai Masters against Tallon Griekspoor. The Italian has used the short break to rest his body and mind.
The four-time Major winner is determined to turn a brief moment of weakness into a valuable lesson. Jannik stood as the favorite in Shanghai. However, severe cramps forced him to stop and pretty much say goodbye to the year-end no. 1 hopes.
The video of the physio helping Jannik Sinner walk to his chair before retiring from the match in Shanghai.
Really tough scenes to watch.
Come back stronger. ❤️🩹
pic.twitter.com/JqrLYNDQ5M— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 5, 2025
Reflecting on his setback, Sinner acknowledged that the problem was not purely physical but also psychological. It was a sign of how mental fatigue can catch up even with the most disciplined athletes.
Now, with a clear mind and renewed energy, Jannik resumed training in Monte Carlo at full intensity before heading to Riyadh. World no. 2 believes that the Shanghai experience will serve him well moving forward.
It should reinforce the importance of managing stress, hydration and recovery during long tournaments in extreme conditions. Riyadh presents a new test and an opportunity for redemption.
Competing against the sport's elite once again, the Italian arrives motivated to return to his A-game and chase the title defense while being aware that setbacks are part of progress.
For a player who thrives on precision and composure, Shanghai was not a setback or defeat. It stands as a reminder that growth often begins the moment things stop going on plan.
Jannik Sinner, Shanghai 2025© Stream screenshot
As always, Jannik will do everything to emerge stronger and perform well at the remaining events of the season, with the main focus on the ATP Finals title defense in Turin.
"I took two days off after Shanghai, and then we got back to work. I feel good physically and mentally. The conditions were very tough that week, but now everything is back to normal. I think it was a psychological factor.
I discussed with my team: from that point of view, it was not perfect, but now everything is fine. The mistake was mine: the heat and humidity affected me, and I collapsed.
You learn from these things: cramps can happen, and I was one of many who suffered them," Jannik Sinner said.