“Always very nice to meet him”: Dominic Thiem recalls his special bond with Jannik Sinner
ATPSaturday, 15 August 2026 at 00:30
Dominic Thiem has opened up about his friendship with Jannik Sinner, recalling the connection they have built over the years and their time training together during the Italian's suspension in 2025. The former US Open champion was speaking to Sky Sport ahead of the UEFA Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.
Thiem highlighted how long the two have known each other and their ability to communicate in German, while also joking that he speaks some Italian. Their relationship became particularly relevant in 2025, when Sinner was forced to spend three months away from competition following his suspension.
During that period, Sinner was unable to train in environments connected to the ATP, WTA, ITF or other tennis institutions, or practice with active professional players. Thiem, who had recently retired, was therefore able to become one of Sinner's training partners as the Italian prepared for his return to the Tour.
Reflecting on their relationship, Thiem said: “We know each other since quite a long time. Always very nice to meet him and to have some great words in German.” The comments add another chapter to a friendship that developed away from official competition, as the two never faced each other in a professional match.
Sinner's emotional tribute to Thiem
That mutual respect was already evident when Thiem played the final match of his career in Vienna in 2024. Sinner sent a message that was shown on the screens at the Erste Bank Open, praising the Austrian despite never having faced him in an official match.
“I've never played against him in an official match, but he has always been a fantastic person. No matter my ranking or my age, he would always say hello to me and have a chat with me.”
Sinner also praised Thiem's personality and impact inside the locker room, adding: “I hope to see him again at some tournament, because he transmits a lot of positive energy. All the players will miss him.”
For Thiem, who reached world No. 3 and won the 2020 US Open, Sinner belongs to the generation that eventually took over men's tennis after his own era. Their story is therefore less about a rivalry and more about a connection between two players from different generations, strengthened during one of the most unusual periods of Sinner's career.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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