Life on the pro tennis circuit can often feel like a solitary grind, jetting across continents, facing constant pressure, and living out of a suitcase for nearly 11 months a year. But for two rising stars, Jack Draper and Jannik Sinner, friendship offers a powerful anchor. Their bond was on full display during last year’s US Open SF, where Sinner triumphed in straight sets. Yet, respect and warmth radiated from Draper ahead of the clash: “We’ve always kept in touch since I’ve been on tour the last couple of years. Jannik is a good friend, someone I’m definitely close to,” he said. And recently, Sinner echoed that sentiment, reaffirming their mutual respect and tight-knit connection on and off the court!
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner continued his impressive return to action in Rome, securing a dominant 6-4, 6-2 win over Dutch lucky loser Jesper de Jong on Monday. Having already defeated Mariano Navone in his opening match, Sinner now eyes a tougher challenge against 26-year-old Argentine Francisco Cerúndolo in the next round.
However, amidst his focus on the home tournament, Sinner still found time to praise his close friend, Jack Draper. The camaraderie between the two continues to shine, even as they chase success on opposite sides of the net.
Speaking ahead of his R16 clash in Rome, Sinner opened up about his close friendship with Jack Draper, offering high praise for the 22-year-old’s progress this season. “Me and Jack, we know each other for quite long. We got to know each other better now when he came, you know, to the level where we are and I think, you know, we all players know how strong he was, what potential he had, and now he’s showing it. He’s one of the best players and maybe the most consistent player we have throughout this season. He keeps showing up every day and, you know, we find ourselves in a great friendship because we are very similar,” Sinner said at the press conference.
He further highlighted the values that form the foundation of their bond. The 3-time GS winner spoke about how humility on and off the court has strengthened their connection. “As people, we are humble. We try to do our best on court and off court we are just very simple people, and his support meant so much to me and some other players—you know, whoever supported me in this period. I really appreciate that, and it was for me very good—you know, was positive energy. It was good with him to practice in Monaco a couple of weeks ago,” he added.
Notably, Draper stood by Sinner’s side during a difficult period earlier this year when the Italian served a three-month ban following a doping violation. During the final stretch of his suspension, Sinner trained in Monaco with Draper, as he prepared to make a return to the ATP Tour. Draper’s consistent presence was both meaningful and motivating for Sinner.
“I’ve always been his biggest fan—you know, when I cannot play or when he’s still in the tournament—and I wish him only the best. Of course, things, they get a little bit more competitive now because he’s in the position where he’s a top-five player, but it doesn’t really matter, you know, because of course we have a great friendship and we will keep that for sure,” Sinner said, recognizing Draper as one of the sport’s standout talents. .
While Sinner showers praise on Draper, the Brit has long echoed the same admiration, even during Sinner’s time away from the court!
Jack Draper opens up about the Jannik Sinner he truly knows
Back in February 2025, AO champion Jannik Sinner received a 3-month suspension following an out-of-court settlement with WADA. During that turbulent time, Jack Draper stood firmly in support of his friend. “I know Jannik, he’s a good friend and I know that with this whole thing, I am sure he wouldn’t have done anything intentionally. But obviously, that’s the sport and we have to be accountable for what’s going in our bodies. Yeah, he is obviously banned now for a few months. I don’t think that’s good for tennis,” the Brit said on February 17. Fast forward to spring, and Draper has once again reaffirmed his trust and admiration for the Italian.
In a conversation with BBC during the Madrid Open on April 22, the 2025 Indian Wells winner reiterated, “When people ask about Jannik I tell the truth – I think he is a really genuine, nice person and on top of that he is an unbelievable player.”
The Brit further added, “In this situation, I am sure he would have had absolutely zero idea of anything. That’s the way life goes – sometimes there are mistakes. In terms of how I feel about him as a person, I think it is important for people to know and recognise the guy is kind-hearted and a good human being,” he said. “He doesn’t deserve any of the hate he gets.”
As Sinner prepares to face the Argentine Francisco Cerundolo and Draper battles Corentin Moutet in Rome, fans can only hope for a thrilling clash between these two close friends in the latter stages of the tournament. Are you anticipating that?
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