At just 14 years of age, Jannik Sinner’s parents gave permission for their son to leave their home in Italy so he could pursue a tennis career.
It wasn’t an easy decision for the close-knit family to make, with Sinner acknowledging it was tough for both him and his parents, Johann and Siglinde.
But the move illustrated the love and support they shared for their son as they allowed him to chase his dream of becoming a professional tennis player.
The most significant milestone in realising that dream was achieved on Sunday night, when Sinner fought back from two sets to love down to beat Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.
Sinner looked outclassed by Medvedev but found a way to work his way back into the match to win 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 and claim his first major title.
Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, the Italian world number four gave his parents credit for his victory.
“I wish everyone could have my parents because they always let me choose whatever I wanted to,” Sinner told the Rod Laver Arena crowd and an enormous global TV audience.
“They never put pressure on me and I wish this freedom is possible for as many young kids as possible.”
When Sinner later met with reporters at Melbourne Park, he expanded on the support he received from his parents, as well as his brother Marc.
“They are the perfect parents,” Sinner said.
“Obviously I know only them, but they are awesome.
“And also my brother, he brings me honesty throughout the whole career I’m going through.”
Sinner’s comments are particularly worthy of attention given the presence of the ‘tennis parent’ in the sport at both the professional and junior level.
There are numerous instances of children being pushed into the sport by overbearing parents, while some have been victims of physical and verbal abuse.
Two-time major winner Mary Pierce and Australia’s former world number four Jelena Dokic are among those who have spoken publicly about the abuse they received from their fathers.
Sinner started playing tennis at seven, but he was also encouraged to participate in other sports such as skiing and football.
He is grateful his parents agreed he could leave home to continue full-time training at the prestigious Piatti tennis academy in the Italian town of Bordighera at such a young age.
“I went away from home when I was 14 years old,” Sinner said.
“So I had to grow up quite fast, trying to cook for myself, trying to do laundry.
“The first time it is different, but then in the other way that was maybe the fastest way to grow up.
“I think for me [it] was tough, but for the parents to leave their son when 14 years old, it’s also not easy.”
Sinner’s respectful upbringing
Sinner is coached by former Italian professional Simone Vagnozzi and Australian Darren Cahill.
Vagnozzi praised Johann and Siglinde Sinner, who have a background working in restaurants, for how they never interfered with their son’s career.
“The parents of Jannik are wonderful, really wonderful,” said Vagnozzi, who has known Sinner since he was a teenager.
“Sometimes they come to the tournament, and they do not speak one word about tennis. They’re just there. They enjoy the life of the tournament.”
Cahill could tell Sinner was raised in a loving family by the way he treats the people who work at the various tournaments around the world.
“Jannik is incredibly respectful on the court,” Cahill said.
“Whether it be to the umpires or ball kids or linespeople … the transport drivers, people at the restaurant, he’s been brought up really well.
“He’s got his feet on the ground. His parents are exactly the same as him. His dad’s got that goofy smile that Jannik has.”
While Sinner’s parents could not make the trip to Melbourne, their son is hopeful he will see them soon so they can share his success.
“I don’t see them so often, unfortunately, but when I see them it’s always great time,” Sinner said.
“They never put pressure on myself, which for me is maybe the key why I’m here today.”