"He has been the dominant force in tennis": Andy Roddick backs Jannik Sinner for Rome Open despite returning to action after three-month break

Former world number one Andy Roddick believes that Italy’s Jannik Sinner will be the favourite to lift the title at the Rome Open. The 23-year-old, who is regarded as the best player currently playing in men’s tennis in the singles category, is set to resume his on-court activities after going through a three-month ban following an agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Sinner spoke to the media before the start of his journey in the competition and played down his chances, stating that he needs more time to adjust as he is playing in his first competition since lifting the Australian Open back in January earlier this year.

“I have to say I have low expectations for this tournament. I’ve been sitting out for so long and I don’t have any feedback on how I’m going to play,” said Sinner. “The goal will be Paris. I’m not here to beat anyone but to try to get through the first round and then we’ll see what can happen. It’s difficult for me to start a new tournament and get back to the rhythm. But we’re very calm, we’re physically and mentally well, we’re rested, which will pay off at the end of the season too.”

Former world number one Roddick, however, does not agree with Sinner's point of view. The 42-year-old said he understands that the three-time Grand Slam winner will be rusty and have low expectations, but he believes that he is still the best player in the world, and it will be no surprise for him if Sinner goes on and lifts the title.

“He is doing a great job of being a rational thinker, but he is No 1 in the world,” said Roddick while speaking to Tennis Channel. “I understand there are going to be lower expectations, but he is still the No 1 player in the world and he has been the dominant force in tennis for the last 18 months. There is only so low that the expectations can go around Jannik Sinner. There are more questions surrounding him and there are going to be moments in this tournament when it’s not the perfect version of Jannik Sinner.