“No superstitions, I’m very normal”: Jannik Sinner shares his relaxed routine before Wimbledon final

Saturday, 11 July 2026 at 04:30

Jannik Sinner knows better than most that beating Novak Djokovic on a Grand Slam stage requires more than just playing good tennis. The Italian entered Friday’s Wimbledon semifinal carrying the memory of his Australian Open defeat against the Serbian earlier this year, but responded with one of his most complete performances of the tournament to reach another major final.

The world No. 1 defeated Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 on Centre Court, denying the seven-time Wimbledon champion another opportunity to chase his record 25th Grand Slam title. Sinner controlled the match from the baseline, protected his serve under pressure and became the first player to defeat Djokovic in straight sets at Wimbledon since 2023.

Despite the significance of the victory, Sinner’s attention quickly turned to the bigger picture. Asked about facing Djokovic again after their dramatic Australian Open encounter, the Italian highlighted the Serbian’s continued excellence at 39 years old and the example he continues to set for younger generations.

“It's so amazing to see him still producing this kind of level. The match he played with Felix, I was watching, and the level was so high,” Sinner said at press conference. “It's a true inspiration for all of us and also the younger generation, how much a good mindset can do to your body and mind as well. For me, he's a true inspiration.”

Sinner reveals his calm approach before another Grand Slam final

While some players rely on strict routines or superstitions before the biggest matches of their careers, Sinner explained that his preparation remains remarkably simple ahead of Sunday’s Wimbledon final against Alexander Zverev.

The Italian admitted that he does not follow any particular rituals before Grand Slam finals, preferring instead to spend time with his team and enjoy the rare moments that come with competing for the biggest trophies in tennis. “No, no superstitions. I mean, I'm very normal,” Sinner said. “I like to spend time with my team, with my friends, if they come.”

Jannik Sinner will play his 7th Grand Slam final this Sunday against Alexander Zverev.

The defending champion also revealed that he plans to enjoy some football during his preparation, with England playing during Wimbledon weekend. “I also enjoy the moment because I know how rare these days are. Grand Slam finals, they are tough to achieve and to arrive, and you also need to enjoy this moment and the process.”

Sinner now faces Zverev in a Wimbledon final that will present a completely different challenge. The German arrives with renewed confidence after winning his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros earlier this year and reaching his first Wimbledon final.

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The Italian believes that breakthrough has changed Zverev’s mentality and made him even more dangerous. “When you finally achieve it, it's amazing. It gives you this confidence boost,” Sinner explained. “We see it here, how aggressive he's playing. He's very big. He's a very, very tough player to play against. He was before, but now even more because of this confidence he has.”

Sinner also admitted that overcoming Djokovic was an important step before competing for another major title. “Mentally I knew that I needed to level up. I've done it today, so it helped me for sure,” he said. “Against Novak, if you want to play even, you need to play your best tennis.”

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Now, after reaching his fourth consecutive Grand Slam final, Sinner will attempt to defend his Wimbledon crown and add another chapter to his rivalry with the new generation of contenders. For the Italian, however, the focus remains on the present.

“Whatever happened in the past between me and him, it happened,” Sinner said about Zverev. “It’s going to be very, very tough, very different than all the other matches we have played. But again, I enjoy the moment, and then we'll see how it goes.”

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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