“He’s the same guy since he was 16”: Opelka on Sinner after Indian Wells doubles

Reilly Opelka spoke positively about his long-standing relationship with Jannik Sinner following their recent doubles partnership at Indian Wells, highlighting the Italian’s consistency in character despite his rise to the top of the sport. The American made the comments during the Miami Open, where he is continuing his singles campaign.

Opelka and Sinner teamed up in doubles at Indian Wells two weeks ago, entering the draw against top seeds Marcelo Granollers and Horacio Zeballos. The pair were defeated 6-4, 6-4 in the opening round, with the experienced specialists proving more efficient in key moments.

The partnership marked a return to a pairing first seen five years earlier at the Atlanta Open, where they won the title after receiving a wildcard. Despite that early success, both players have prioritised their singles careers, and their reunion in Indian Wells was largely aimed at gaining match rhythm rather than pursuing a sustained doubles schedule.

Now competing at the 2026 Miami Open, Opelka advanced to the second round after a comeback win over Nuno Borges, 6-7, 6-2, 7-6. The result underlined his ability to manage tight matches, recovering from a set down before closing out the decisive tiebreak.

Opelka described Sinner as one of the most approachable players on tour, noting that his personality has remained unchanged despite his development into one of the dominant figures in men’s tennis. Having known the Italian since his teenage years, the American pointed to a consistency in attitude that stands out within a competitive environment.

He also grouped Sinner alongside Carlos Alcaraz when discussing players widely respected across the locker room, suggesting that their conduct off the court matches their level of performance. For Opelka, that combination is not always guaranteed at the top of the sport.

“Jannick’s the man. He’s really just a nice guy. I think everyone gets along with him. It’s Yannick and Carlos too — they’re like the nicest dudes ever. They really are," the former top-20 said to Tennis Channel. “I’ve known him since he was 16. Sweetest guy. Always had time for everyone. And then he becomes the best player on the planet and nothing’s changed, which is really cool.”

The comments reflect a broader perception of Sinner within the ATP Tour, where his rise to the top ranking has not altered his reputation among peers. For Opelka, that continuity remains one of the most notable aspects of his progression.

The doubles appearance at Indian Wells was not intended as a long-term commitment, with both Opelka and Sinner continuing to prioritise their singles schedules. Instead, the partnership offered an opportunity to gain additional match play in a competitive setting without altering their main objectives on tour.

Opelka indicated that the experience was positive despite the early exit, describing it as a useful variation in competition. Their previous success in Atlanta remains an isolated moment rather than the foundation of an ongoing doubles collaboration. “Jannick’s always been great. He hasn’t changed at all. I always joke with Jannick and Carlos — if I hit the ball like them, I’d smile all the time.”

Looking ahead, Opelka’s focus shifts fully to his singles campaign at the Miami Open, where he is set to face 25th seed Jack Draper. The American identified Draper’s return game as a key challenge, particularly given the additional difficulty of facing a left-handed opponent. “Playing a lefty is always tricky. He’s one of the best returners in the world. If you have a big lefty like him who’s top 10 in returning, that usually equals a top-five player if the serve comes with it.”