Jannik Sinner debunks on-court achievements as he shares his cherished legacy: "I'd like people to remember me for the kind of person I am"

Taking a bit of a break from the action, Jannik Sinner had a chance to reflect on the heroic season he is currently enduring. Comfortably the best player in the world, his rewards and accolades earned in 2026 are not the most important thing when it comes to his legacy. Instead, how he conducted himself as a person on and off the court was what he wanted to be remembered for.

This campaign has belonged to Sinner. While a slightly slow start by his mega standards had people worried, a successful sunshine double muted any rushed concerns. In the first and only contest against Carlos Alcaraz this year to date, he defeated him in straight sets at the Monte-Carlo Masters before going on to back that success up in Madrid and Rome.

Roland Garros seemed destined for him, but a complete collapse in his second round match cost him any chance of clinching a maiden major title on clay. He made things right back in SW19, coming back from a set down to defeat the French Open victor Alexander Zverev and defend his title at Wimbledon.

As he patiently waits for his chance to enter the fray in North America with a return to hardcourts a huge boost for him, Sinner went aboard the cruise ship Explora III as a spokesperson for an event organised by Explora Journeys.

He began by reviewing his campaign. "Together with my team, we are already preparing for this second part of the season and the return to hard courts," he told Secolo XIX. "The first seven months have flown by in a flash, and we've achieved excellent results. We're obviously very happy to have defended our Wimbledon title; it was a truly special moment for all of us."

It was not an easy by any means for Sinner to rise to the top of the sport. He has had a brilliant support group around him whether it comes from family or coaches, pushing him to his limit and beyond while being there by his side, backing and following every step he takes.

Sinner was very grateful to have the people he does in his life, specifically focusing on his parents. "I consider myself very lucky to have the parents I have," he said. "They've always helped and supported me, without ever putting pressure on me."

That freedom to on court without the burden of being put under pressure by his parents was a huge benefit for the Italian. He is fully onboard with this method and believes that this is a fundamental part of sport, emphasising the enjoyment factor.

"I believe it's important to give children the freedom to choose the sport they enjoy most," Sinner added. "First and foremost, they should have fun and enjoy the sport they play, without feeling pressured."

It is an ominous thought to think that Sinner could still get better. At the age of 24, there is so much more to win and improvement on court is his ultimate aim. As he strives to reach his best level while adapting his game to take those next steps, the competition is currently being left in the dust.

A five-time Grand Slam champion, Sinner just needs Roland Garros to complete the collection. He has won at all the Masters 1000 events but has relinquished the chance to win every single title in the same season following his withdrawal from the Canadian Open. A two-time ATP Finals champion and 10-time Masters 1000 champion are among the 30 ATP titles he has already won.

Despite all of these accolades, this is not the first thing he wants people to think of him in the future, wanting his legacy to revolve the around of person he is. "What would I like to be the first thing people remember about me in ten years? I'm only 24, so that's not an easy question to answer," Sinner concludes. "Beyond my on-court achievements, I'd like people to remember me for the kind of person I am and the values ​​my parents instilled in me."

He centred the brilliant support given from tennis fans around his campaigns on home turf in Italy. The recent Rome Open champion for the first time, the world number one is adored in that part of the world as he hopes fans continue enjoying his showings on the big stage long into the future.

"Maybe some will also remember because they enjoyed watching my matches," he concluded. "When I play in Italy, the crowd always gives me great support, and I hope I can also convey joy and positive energy."