Filippo Volandri, Italy's team captain for the
ATP Davis Cup, has shared his thoughts on
Jannik Sinner's decision to skip the tournament.
Italy will compete in the Davis Cup group stage held in Bologna from 12-17 September. Recently, the team members were announced, including World No. 18 Lorenzo Musetti, World No. 39 Lorenzo Sonego, World No. 61 Matteo Arnaldi, and doubles World No. 41 and 43 Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori.
One notable absence was Italy's top-ranked player Jannik Sinner, who is No. 6 in the world. The 22-year-old was dealing with cramps during a grueling four-hour-and-41-minute clash with Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the US Open.
Volandri respects Sinner's decision
Following the five-set thriller which Sinner lost, the Italian explained that he needed more time to recover and therefore would not be able to take part in the Davis Cup group stage.
"Unfortunately I didn't have enough time to recover after the tournaments in America and unfortunately I won't be able to be part of the team in Bologna," he said, "It is always an honor to play for our country and I am convinced I will return to the national team as soon as possible. Good luck to the guys, see you."
In response, Volandri said that he understood and respected Sinner's decision.
"We wish Jannik a speedy recovery, we know how much he cares about Davis, he has already shown it. We respect his decision, I'm sure we will have him available in the future," he said.
Volandri also opens up on Berrettini
Another Italian player forced to miss the tournament is
Matteo Berrettini, who left Flushing Meadows in a wheelchair after sustaining an ankle injury in his second-round US Open match.
The 27-year-old recently updated fans on his condition, saying he hoped to be back soon after the Shanghai Masters in October. This puts him out of contention for the Davis Cup squad.
"Matteo was once again very unlucky, he had put himself at our complete disposal, he was looking forward to this commitment because he knew it would be good for him, we are also waiting for the next challenges. I will try to take advantage of all the squad I have available. I need everyone's availability, everyone must be ready," Volandri said.
