Tennis needs Novak Djokovic, people don't see how he really is: Jannik Sinner

Jannik Sinner is hoping that Novak Djokovic isn't ending his career soon after beating the Serbian in the semi-final of the French Open 2025 on Friday, June 6. Sinner beat Djokovic in straight sets to make it to the final.

In Short

• Sinner defeated Djokovic  6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) in the semi-final
• The Italian hailed Djokovic as a role model for the younger generation
• Sinner said he has picked up a lot of things while training with Djokovic

Jannik Sinner is hoping that Novak Djokovic isn't bringing his career to an end and claimed that tennis needs the Serbian star after beating him to reach the final of the French Open 2025. Sinner downed Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) at Court Philippe-Chatrier in three hours and 16 minutes to set up a clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the final. Following the completion of the match, Djokovic seemed to be emotional and set down his kitbag and waved to the crowd as he made his exit.

The former World No.1 touched the court, hinting that this could have been his final match at Roland Garros. Speaking at the press conference, Sinner said it is always nice to see Djokovic in the locker room and hailed him as a role model for the younger generation of players.

“First of all, we hope that that’s not the case. I feel like tennis needs him... Having someone different than the younger guys.. my point of view.. it’s so nice to see him in the locker room and having this energy of everything. I saw him practising a couple of days ago. He’s very precise in everything he does. He’s a true role model for all of us. If that’s the case, I’m happy to be part of this. Because it’s a part of history also. Also for me, it’s nice to be part of this. Let’s hope it’s not the case. He said maybe, so you never know,” said Sinner.

'People don't see how Djokovic really is'

Sinner did spend time with Djokovic when he broke into the ATP tour scene and trained with the Serbian in Monaco. When asked about what he learned from the former World No.1, Sinner said that he picked up many things from Djokovic and the Serbian legend always answered to him in an honest way.

Sinner also claimed that people from the outside have a different image of Djokovic. He said that the Serbian is a very kind person and helpful in times when you need it the most. The Italian said that Djokovic is very important for him as a player and as as person.

“Many things. I was lucky enough to practice with him when I was very young. In Monaco we practiced a lot. Every time I asked questions, he answered me in a very honest way. It’s very nice. People don’t see how he really is. I think people from outside or people who don’t know him have a different picture of him. It’s not like this. He’s a very kind person. He’s very helpful in times when you need it. I’ve learned many things from him. I feel like my game style is.. not the same, because we are different, but at times similar. I’ve watched a lot of his videos. I was lucky I could share the court with him some time ago. He’s very important for me as a player and also as a person. I really appreciate his kind words because it means I’m improving as a player, which is the most important part," said Sinner.

Sinner will face Alcaraz in the men's final on Sunday, June 8.