Who are the Carota Boys? Jannik Sinner's unique fan club set to cheer him on in Turin

As the tennis world converges on Turin for the ATP Finals, all eyes are on Italy's rising star, Jannik Sinner, who boasts the support of a fan club like no other—the Carota Boys.

When Jannik Sinner steps onto the court for his first match at the ATP Finals in Turin this Sunday, a special group in the stands will be there, laughing, cheering, and donning carrot costumes. These are the Carota Boys, the Jannik Sinner fan club that has gained cult status in the tennis world. Their eye-catching carrot-themed outfits set them apart, adding a touch of whimsy to the prestigious tennis tournaments.

But who are the Carota Boys, the group that followed Sinner to Grand Slam tournaments in Paris, Wimbledon, and New York this year? Comprising six friends aged between 26 and 28 from Cuneo (Piedmont), they include bakers, clerks, and a sausage seller. Their common bond is their passion for tennis, particularly for Jannik Sinner, whom they have ardently supported for years. However, their fan club's popularity skyrocketed this year.

At the Masters tournament in Rome, the Carota Boys made a splash in their carrot costumes, catching the attention of sponsors, including coffee manufacturer Lavazza, which also sponsors Jannik Sinner. With Lavazza's support, the Carota Boys traveled to New York, where they became a spectacle in the stands at the US Open. While Sinner hadn't met his dedicated fans personally at that point, he expressed his appreciation, stating in an interview, “They are completely different than most fans; I like it when they support me.”

Sinner and the Carota Boys have since become acquainted and even played tennis together in the lead-up to the ATP Finals. The buzz in Turin isn't just about Sinner; it's also about the Carota Boys, who have amassed nearly 40,000 followers on Instagram. One of the group members remarks, “At first, we thought people thought we were crazy. But they stop to take selfies or photograph us. For us, it's a playful and healthy way to experience being a fan - fun and respectful. Just like with tennis.” He adds that fan items have been sold in Japan, Australia, and Canada.

As for the choice of carrots, there are two reasons. It's a nod to Jannik Sinner's hair color, and it pays homage to the South Tyrolean's favorite snack. Sinner, a carrot enthusiast, occasionally enjoys a bite of the orange vegetable during a game. So, in Turin, fans can anticipate not only a stellar performance from Jannik Sinner on the court but also an entertaining show from the Carota Boys in the stands.