Venus Williams-Like Qualities Found in Jannik Sinner as Italian Ex-Pro Makes Striking Comparison

Whenever any emerging star takes big strides in the tennis world, comparisons are bound to happen. Take the example of Grigor Dimitrov a few years back. The Bulgarian star was famously termed the next Roger Federer due to his playing style. Additionally, he is also nicknamed ‘Baby Federer.’ Similarly, the case of Jannik Sinner is no different. The Italian star enjoyed the best season of his career, winning the Australian Open and the US Open, apart from other big titles. As a result, his compatriot and former pro player, Angelo Binaghi, compared him to one of America’s greatest players, Venus Williams.

Like Williams, Sinner uses his height to good advantage and has a power-packed game. Additionally, his accuracy is top-notch, making very few unforced errors as Williams during her peak. This brought the former player to make striking comparisons between Williams and Sinner.

During Binaghi’s interview with the Italian daily La Nuova Sardegna, he revealed the common traits between Williams and Sinner. Binaghi said, “The first time I saw him was in Milan, in the locker room, during the Next Gen Finals. He struck me for his education and simplicity. At the time, he reminded me a bit of Venus Williams: incredible potential, but athletic difficulties in covering the court. Then Sinner’s tenacity and determination created a complete player, without weak points.”

Like Williams, Sinner boasts tremendous potential and never gives anything away to his opponents. However, if there’s any weakness in his game, it is his swiftness in covering the court. This reminded Binaghi of the playing style of Williams and hence the comparison with Sinner ensued. Nonetheless, Sinner has worked on his weakness and never gives up in rallies.

While Sinner may be boasting similar qualities as the elder Williams sister, he also has a major strength that Serena Williams lacked. As a result, the 23-time Grand Slam champion was in awe of Sinner’s skills.

When Serena Williams gushed over Jannik Sinner’s forehand

The Italian star has time and again proven why his forehands are his biggest strength. Sinner hits thunderous forehands which give him a big advantage during the rallies. After his Australian Open win this year, even Serena Williams was left in awe of Sinner’s ability to hit powerful forehand shots.

Wanting to possess similar skills as Sinner, Williams said, “I wish I hit my forehand like that. Seriously, the racquet speed, the power, I was like, ‘Wow, night and day.’ You’re unbelievable. Congrats on Australia.” Subsequently, Williams also wished Sinner luck ahead of his Miami Open final. This eventually proved to be useful as he went on to defeat Grigor Dimitrov in the summit clash to clinch the Miami Open trophy.

With Sinner ending the season on a high, he’ll look to cement his position at the top of the ATP rankings next year. He has confirmed his participation at the Australian Open, where he is the defending champion. It’ll be interesting to see if the Italian star can win back-to-back major titles Down Under.