“He can take on any opponent on any surface": Wilander backs Sinner for continued success after US Open title

Mats Wilander has endorsed Jannik Sinner as the favourite on any surface following his commanding victory at the US Open. The Italian defeated local star Taylor Fritz in emphatic fashion, crowning a dream season with his third title of the year and second Grand Slam trophy, adding to his Australian Open victory earlier this season.

The World No. 1 overcame Fritz 6-3, 6-4, 7-5, strengthening his grip at the top of the rankings, now holding a lead of over 4,000 points ahead of second-placed Alexander Zverev. Sinner had arrived at Flushing Meadows under a cloud of uncertainty after testing positive twice in doping controls back in March.

The 23-year-old was allowed to continue playing on the Tour, as no voluntary violation was found. However, the situation stirred up controversy, with some players criticising the preferential treatment Sinner received compared to others who have faced lengthy suspensions in similar situations.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander praised Sinner for maintaining his focus throughout the tournament, undistracted by the off-court drama: “This means so much to him and he works so hard. It’s all happening so quickly after winning the Australian Open and becoming world No. 1, but at the same time, it feels like he’s been patient,” the Swede told Eurosport. “The steps of improvement are obvious, but it’s not certain that he will win everything from now on.”

“He’s so solid, so good, especially on big points. I think there was a huge sigh of relief at the end, considering how the tournament started with the doping issue, but everyone has forgotten about that now. Taylor Fritz was really disappointing—I thought he had a chance, but it wasn’t close.”

Sinner has now held the No. 1 spot for 14 consecutive weeks, and it seems increasingly likely that he will finish the year as the top player. In the ATP Race, he leads Zverev by 2,885 points, with only two Masters 1000 events and the ATP Finals remaining. Only a disaster could prevent the Italian from starting 2025 as No. 1 in the ranking.

“There are a few big tournaments for Sinner to retain his World No. 1 ranking, but he’ll also be looking at the Australian Open again. It’s been a solid two weeks here. His first match against Mackenzie McDonald was the only real question mark, but I think he knew this would happen if he stayed on track,” Wilander said.

According to the 1988 US Open champion, Jannik Sinner is now the favourite in any match he plays: “He can take on any opponent on any surface, and right now, Sinner is the favourite. At this stage of his career, he’s only going to improve. He’s just 23 and didn’t play much as a junior, which means he’s still fresh,” the former world No. 1 added. “His popularity will only continue to grow because he’s so humble as a sportsperson.”